Brushing your teeth is essential to good oral care and disease prevention. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), both electric and manual toothbrushes are effective at removing oral plaque that causes decay and disease. The ADA puts a Seal of Acceptance on any toothbrush, electric or manual, that’s proven safe and effective.
Manual toothbrushes are usually less expensive than their electric counterparts, but studies show they are not necessarily as effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis. Stiffer bristles are not going to remove tartar from your teeth, but they can remove gum tissue, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum recession.
Some advantages of using a manual toothbrush is that is very portable, being easy to keep in a bag or at your office to brush your teeth after meals. Additionally, it's inexpensive and widely available in most stores for $1-$10. Finally, there are no batteries needed in manual toothbrushes, which means there is no need for a power supply and no battery waste.
However, some disadvantages include missing difficult to reach spots when brushing your teeth, therefore making it less effective for cleaning teeth. Many people brush harder than needed when brushing their teeth with manual toothbrushes compared to those who use electric toothbrushes, making it more abrasive to the gums. However, it depends on your brushing technique and it continues to be studied. Next, many experts recommend replacing toothbrushes every 2 to 3 months because the bristles become worn out, creating excess plastic waste. Finally, it is not ideal for young children, people with disabilities, and the elderly because of complications or difficulty with dexterity.
The best toothbrush for your child is whatever one they are mostly likely to use. Experts recommend toothbrushes with soft bristles and a child-sized toothbrush head for kids. Neither a manual nor electric toothbrush is necessarily better for young children. It's highly recommended to supervise younger children to prevent them from getting injured or swallowing or spitting out the toothpaste.
Some advantages with electric toothbrushes include being more effective at removing plaque and preventing gingivitis according to many studies. Electric toothbrush bristles vibrate or rotate to help you remove plaque buildup from your teeth and gums. The vibration allows for more micro-movements every time you move the toothbrush across your teeth. Oscillating (rotating) toothbrushes seem to work better than just vibrating toothbrushes because the circular movements are better for removing plaque and food particles. Additionally, when used properly, electric toothbrushes should not hurt your gums or enamel.
Furthermore, electric toothbrushes are much easier to use with those with limited mobility, including those with carpal tunnel, arthritis, developmental disabilities, and children. They are also very helpful for those with orthodontic appliances such as braces to make brushing easier and brush difficult to reach areas. Some electric toothbrushes include a timer built in to help you brush your teeth long enough and sensors that can detect when you are applying too much pressure.
However, there are some disadvantages with electric toothbrushes. Most prominently, electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual ones, with prices ranging from $15-$250 per brush and replacement brush heads costing $10-$45 dollars and should be replaced every 3 months. Although electric toothbrushes may produce less waste, because they require electricity or batteries, they are less eco-friendly than manual ones. Finally, those who are uncomfortable with the buzzing or have sensory issues, electric toothbrushes may not be the best option.
According to the ADA, all toothbrushes need to be replaced every three to four months. Replace your toothbrush sooner if the bristles look frayed or if you used it when you were sick as the bacteria or virus can infect you again. With a manual toothbrush, the whole thing needs to be replaced while with an electric toothbrush, you may only need to replace the removable head.
Both electric and manual toothbrushes are effective at cleaning teeth if you use proper technique and brush long enough and consistently. Overall, an electric toothbrush may make brushing easier, resulting in better plaque removal. Talk with your dentist if you have questions about which toothbrush might be best for you.
Sources:
https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/health/dental/are-electric-toothbrushes-better Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board