Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of good dental health, but should you be using a manual brush or an electric one to clean your teeth?
Electric toothbrushes have been on the market since the 1960s, and they provide significant benefits over their manual counterparts. They use a vibrating or rotating motion to remove plaque buildup from teeth and gums, allowing for more micro-movements as you move the brush across your teeth. Read on to learn more about why an electric toothbrush may be the best option for your teeth.
They’re effective at removing plaque
Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes are better at removing plaque and gingivitis than their manual counterparts. In one study, after three months of use, participants saw a reduction in plaque of 21 percent and an 11 percent reduction in cases of gingivitis. Research has also shown that rotating electric toothbrushes performed better than those that only vibrate. If you have trouble cleaning hard-to-reach areas as you brush, like areas in the back of your mouth, a small-headed electric toothbrush can make reaching them easier.
They’re ideal for people with limited mobility
If you have limited mobility due to carpal tunnel, arthritis or developmental disabilities, electric toothbrushes are easier to use than manual ones. They do all the work for you in terms of cleaning your teeth—all you have to do is glide the brush from side to side across your teeth as the brushes’ micro-movements scrub plaque and food particles from your teeth and gums.
They ensure you’re brushing for the right length of time
Some electric toothbrushes are programmed with built-in timers, helping you to be aware of how long you’re brushing your teeth. This is especially helpful for children who often rush through brushing at the expense of their oral health. A built-in timer ensures you’re brushing for an appropriate time—generally two minutes—so you can sufficiently remove plaque and food particles from teeth and gums.
They help you focus on brushing
Research has shown that people who use an electric toothbrush are more focused when brushing. Not only does this improve the overall brushing experience, but it can also improve how well you’re cleaning your teeth.
They’re ideal for people with orthodontic appliances
Research has shown that electric toothbrushes make brushing easier for people with orthodontic appliances like braces. Electric toothbrushes can scour hard-to-reach places, like between wires and brackets, working to dislodge plaque and food particles and preserving your oral health.
They’re gentle on gums
Do you have sensitive gums that bleed easily? You may be brushing too hard and damaging your gums, not to mention wearing away tooth enamel. Electric toothbrushes are gentle on gums and enamel, and some even feature a sensor that engages when you’re brushing with too much pressure. By gently removing plaque and protecting your enamel, electric toothbrushes preserve your overall oral health.
Still unsure about which toothbrush option—electric or manual—is right for you? Your Fioritto dentist is here to help! Schedule your appointment with Fioritto Family Dental today to protect your teeth and preserve your smile.