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Dr. Joy Lunan tells her patients that brushing your teeth is the foundation upon which good oral health and prevention are built. Both electric and manual toothbrushes are effective at removing plaque that causes dental disease and are both approved by the ADA. Each of these toothbrushes has their pros and cons. Read on to decide which one might be the right one for you. 

ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH PROS:

The bristles on electric toothbrushes vibrate or rotate which allows for more micromovements every time you move it across the teeth. This means improved plaque removal. A review of studies shows just that. After 3 months of use, plaque and debris were removed 21% more, reducing gum disease by 11% in participants. That study also showed that rotating brushes are more effective than vibrating ones. 

Electric toothbrushes are easier for people with limited mobility as they do most of the work for you. People with arthritis, carpal tunnel or developmental disabilities may find this helpful.

Built in timers in electric brushes will help to make sure that the user is brushing long enough to be effective at removing the plaque from teeth and gums. 

You may creating less waste because when it’s time for a new toothbrush, because you only have to replace the head – with a manual brush you would have to throw away the entire thing. 

One study showed that people are more focused when using an elctric toothbrush, thus, leading to improvement in how well you are cleaning the teeth. 

An electric toothbrush may be especially helpful for patients who are in the midst of orthodontic treatment.  Not all kids consider brushing their teeth fun, an electric toothbrush can make it fun for them. 

ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH CONS:

Electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual ones. Prices can range from $15 to over $200 for one brush. Plus the cost of replacement heads and batteries. It can sometimes be inconvenient to find the correct replacement head and/or a store that carries them. You can find them online but this is not an option for everyone. 

MANUAL TOOTHBRUSH PROS:

Manual toothbrushes have been around for a very long time. They may not have all the bells and whistles of an electric brush, but if you are more comfortable with a manual brush then continue using it. It means you’ll still brush twice per day, every single day.

They are very accessible, being sold at almost every grocery store, gas station, dollar store or pharmacy. They can be used anyplace at any time as they do not need to be charged to use them, making them very convenient.

Manual toothbrushes are definitely more cost effective. One will cost you about $1 to $5. 

MANUAL TOOTHBRUSH CONS:

One study found that patients are more likely to brush too hard with a manual brush vs. an electric type. If you brush too hard it may hurt your teeth or gums. 

Using a manual brush may make it difficult for a person to keep track of how long they are brushing each time. You may consider placing a timer on your bathroom counter to help with this.

The best brush for your child is whichever one they are going to use. Always use soft bristles, the same pros and cons apply.

If you still are having a hard time deciding which type of toothbrush is best for you, why not schedule an appointment in Dr. Joy Lunan’s dental office in Middlebury, CT.    203-598-7920    www.middleburydentist.com

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