In your quest to achieve the best oral care, you want to start with the basics, which is why you’re eager to find the right toothbrush to use. But with so many options to choose from, what once seemed like a simple task has now become somewhat daunting. Should you choose an electric or manual option? Are hard bristles more effective than softer ones? Your dentist will weigh in with simple tips for making the right choice for your oral hygiene.
Which is Better – The Electric or Manual Toothbrush?
As you make a decision on whether to go with an electric or manual toothbrush, here are some comparisons to help you:
- Easy Use – If you have injuries or a condition that limits your range of motion or ability to maneuver with a toothbrush, then the electric version may be better for you. This is because its motorized action does most of the work for you.
- Control – While the electric toothbrush affords you an easier way to get into tight spots, it takes away some of your control. Thus, if you have sensitive gums that bleed easily, you’ll have a much harder time lessening the applied pressure than with a manual option.
- Time – The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth at least two minutes each session. It’s worth noting, though, that this protocol applies to brushing with a manual toothbrush. However, when you use an electric alternative, you won’t need to clean your teeth for that long. This is because motorized toothbrushes can produce 6,000 to 30,000 strokes per minute.
- Cost – There is a drastic difference between the cost of manual and electric toothbrushes. The latter has a higher initial price point and requires the purchase of batteries. In addition to that, the head of the unit must be replaced every 60 to 90 days to prevent bacteria contamination. The manual version, though, only requires the purchase of the toothbrush – no extra gadgets.
The final choice on which type of toothbrush is better for you comes down to you. Evaluate your situation and needs and make your decision based on that. Either way you go, you can’t lose. Both types deliver clean teeth as long as you perform your oral hygiene consistently and properly.
Do Harder Bristles Clean Your Teeth Better?
There is still another set of criteria for you to consider. Would you prefer firmer bristles or the softer version? Most dentists agree that softer bristles are better because they present less of a threat to the health of your gums and maintenance of your enamel (the outer layer of your teeth).
Although it may seem that a more abrasive alternative is the better choice, let’s take a moment to consider the anatomy of your teeth and gums. The enamel on the former is hard just like the porcelain of fine cookware. But when you clean porcelain pots and pans, you don’t want to use a very abrasive pad because it damages the coating. The same applies to your teeth. A hard-bristled toothbrush could damage your enamel, which can’t be regenerated once worn down.
A hint about why harder bristles could cause problems for your gums is the classification used for them – soft tissue. Thus, a harsh way of cleaning your teeth could cause problems for sensitive gums, leading to problems like bleeding and irritation.
So now you’re prepared to make an educated decision on a toothbrush. After you make your choice and put your new oral hygiene tool to use, be sure to schedule an appointment with your family dentist for a routine cleaning and checkup to ensure that your efforts are effective.
About the Author
A graduate of the University of California at San Francisco School of Dentistry, Dr. Charles Walker has been practicing dentistry in Salk Lake City for over 30 years. He prides himself in offering innovative and compassionate care to his patients. Dr. Walker can be reached for more information through his website.