Confused between manual and electric toothbrushes? Here is a list of some benefits of electric toothbrushes that might help you make the decision.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends either of the toothbrushes to keep teeth healthy. While electric toothbrushes are more expensive, they are also shown to be more effective in removing plaque and reducing tooth decay, according to CNET.
In a 2014 study, the Cochrane Collaboration pored over 56 clinical trials of unsupervised toothbrushing in more than 5,000 volunteers, including both adults and children.
Those who used an electric toothbrush for up to three months experienced an 11% reduction in plaque compared to those who brushed using a manual toothbrush for the same time, the study found.
Another study that observed participants for 11 years showed that using electric toothbrushes led to healthier teeth. The 2019 study, conducted by researchers at the University of Medicine Greifswald in Germany, also found that people using electric toothbrushes retained 19% more teeth than those who used manual brushes.
People with braces also benefit more from an electric toothbrush. A study by the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics found people with braces, who used manual brushes, were more likely to accumulate plaque and be at increased risk of gingivitis in comparison to electric toothbrushes.
Electric toothbrushes are also a great option for kids. Children, more often than not, get bored easily and do not brush properly, leading to plaque build-up. An electric toothbrush’s head rotates in different directions, and can more effectively scrub away plaque in a shorter time.
There are some mistakes people make while using toothbrushes that prevent them from maintaining their pearly whites.
Duration of brushing
The ADA recommends brushing for 2 minutes, twice a day, with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rushing the routine may not remove all the plaque buildup on the teeth.
Overusing toothbrushes
According to the ADA, one should change these toothbrush heads every three to four months. In fact, if the bristles become frayed or matted, they should be replaced immediately, irrespective of the time.
Brushing too hard
The force with which one brushes should also be considered. Brushing too hard can wear down both gums and teeth. Breakdown of tooth enamel makes them sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Furthermore, brushing too hard can also recede the gums.
Not using the right toothbrush
A toothbrush with soft bristles and a handle long enough to reach the back of the mouth is recommended by the ADA. For assurance, one can look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which is out on the packaging of the brushes approved by the American Dental Association.