When choosing a toothbrush, the first decision you’ll need to make is whether you want a manual or powered device. Manual devices require you to move and operate the brush all on your own, while electric models spin and pulse the bristles for you. If you’re having trouble deciding which dental care product is right for you, here are five reasons why you might want to purchase an electric toothbrush over a manual one.

5 Reasons Powered Toothbrushes Are Better Than Manual Devices

1. Improved Cleanliness

According to the American Dental Association, both manual and electric devices provide an effective clean when used properly. However, additional research recognized by the National Institutes of Health suggests that electric toothbrushes are 21% more effective at removing cavity-causing plaque and 11% better at protecting against gingivitis — the early stage of gum disease. The reason behind this improvement may be that powered devices provide a significantly higher number of strokes per minute compared to what’s possible with a manual product.

2. Better on Enamel

Using a manual toothbrush can be tough on those with sensitive teeth — especially if the individual is using hard bristles and applying lots of pressure. Many powered brushes, by contrast, work around this problem by using pressure sensors that will alert you if your pressing too hard against the enamel.

3. Easier Grip

To gain an effective clean with a traditional toothbrush, you must maintain a strong grip on the handle. Unfortunately, keeping this grip can be painful if you suffer from chronic pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. Since electric devices operate on their own, they don’t require as strong of a grip, making it a more comfortable experience for those with arthritis.

4. Longer Brushing  

For many people, brushing for two minutes takes longer than they first anticipated. While keeping track of the time can be difficult with a non-powered toothbrush, electric products often feature built-in timers that will shut off when you’re done.

5. Dental Care Savings

At first, electric toothbrushes tend to cost more than standard devices. However, due to their superior oral hygiene abilities, powered devices can end up doing a better job of preventing gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental health problems. If you can successfully prevent these problems using an electric brush, you can avoid having to pay for costly dental care to restore your oral health.

Since dental care needs vary from person to person, not every toothbrush may be right for you. If you’re curious to find out which oral hygiene products are right for you, talk to the professionals at Schaible Dental Group. Serving patients in the St. Peters, MO, area, this dental clinic will provide an in-depth assessment of your teeth and gums while offering suggestions and treatments to address specific problems affecting your smile. To learn more about how this community dentist will improve your oral health, visit the practice online. For appointments, call (636) 279-1633.