Are Electric Toothbrushes Better Than Manual Ones? What Dentists in Manchester Think

Are Electric Toothbrushes Better Than Manual Ones? What Dentists in Manchester Think

TL;DR: Electric toothbrushes do seem to have some advantages when it comes to plaque removal and gum health. However, much depends on how well and how consistently you brush in the first place.

How much time do you spend thinking about your toothbrush? Well, for most of us, that only really happens when we notice it’s time to buy a new one. The thing is, there are so many to choose from, including both electric and manual ones. The former will cost you a bit more, so are they better?

It seems the British public is kind of torn on the subject, too, with over 40% of people sticking with a traditional manual brush. Some like the idea of what electric toothbrushes offer, while others remain a little reticent.

So, we thought we’d weigh in on the topic and give you an answer from a dentist’s perspective. We’ll give you the lowdown, so you know whether the extra costs are an investment in your teeth or a waste of money.

Why Do Dentists Tend to Think Electric Toothbrushes Are Better?

If you were to bring up brushing and toothbrushes at your regular dental check-up, you shouldn’t be surprised if your dentist tells you that an electric toothbrush is the way to go. You should also expect your dentist in Manchester to mention a caveat or two, such as how well you use your toothbrush.

Brushing technique matters a great deal because the majority of people will have something, maybe something small, that they do wrong. Brushing too quickly and pressing too hard are just a couple of ways you can go awry.

You see, it all boils down to that. If you’ve got either kind of toothbrush, as long as you’re not missing areas, you’re good. That said, there are some instances where electric toothbrushes do particularly well.

Too many patients only start paying attention to how they brush after a problem crops up. Upon hearing they need gum disease treatment, it finally hits home that they need to do more to get closer to the perfect dental routine.

How Can I Tell If I Need to Switch to an Electric Toothbrush?

While electric toothbrushes get a lot of press these days, and they do get your dentist’s approval, they’re not for everyone. Reading this article, you’re doing your best to form an opinion, and in the interests of balance, it’s important to know there are times when sticking with your regular brush is best.

It’s worth being honest, because the decision should come down to your own teeth and routine, rather than what happens to be popular. If any of the following are true, you might be best staying with what you’ve got:

• Your dentist never flags anything – if your plaque levels are consistently fine and your gums are healthy, your current routine is clearly working, and there’s no problem that needs solving
• You find the vibration genuinely uncomfortable – some people find the sensation unpleasant enough that it affects how thoroughly they brush, in which case a manual brush will be better.
• You have dentures or implant-supported teeth – Electric toothbrushes aren’t always appropriate, such as when you have dental implants. As such, it’s worth checking with your dentist, rather than automatically assuming that electric is the right call.

The right toothbrush is ultimately the one that works for your mouth and your habits. For some, it’s electric, for others, it’s a manual toothbrush. As long as you’re brushing and flossing as you should, you’re doing the right thing, regardless.

Helping People Across Manchester Achieve Better Dental Health

Electric toothbrushes are most useful for people who want brushing to feel easier day to day. They’re not a magic fix, but for plenty, they can make a noticeable difference to how their teeth feel each day. However, you should only ever make that call based on your own needs

At Ringway Dental, we regularly help patients with everything from gum problems to preventative dental care. Good brushing habits at home are a central part of protecting your teeth long term, and we’ll help you get it right.

If you’d like advice about your oral health, feel free to get in touch with our team today, or book a free consultation.

Claude responded: Q – Can you brush too hard with a manual toothbrush?

Q – Can you brush too hard with a manual toothbrush?

A – Yes, and plenty of people do without realising it. Brushing too hard over a long period can irritate your gums and gradually wear the enamel down, particularly around the gumline.

Q – How often should you replace an electric toothbrush head?

A – Every three months is the general rule, or earlier if the bristles are already looking frayed or splayed. Worn bristles clean less effectively, so it’s a must.

Q – Do electric toothbrushes help with bad breath?

A – They can, though not directly. Better plaque removal and cleaner gumlines reduce two of the more common causes of persistent bad breath. Our blog on bad breath prevention tells you more.

Q – Can children use electric toothbrushes safely?

A – Yes, provided you’re using an age-appropriate brush and keeping an eye on technique to begin with.

Q – Is brushing technique still important with an electric toothbrush?

A – It is. The brush does a lot of the work, but you still need to guide it properly around every surface and not rush through areas that are easy to miss. The brush can’t compensate for skipping half your mouth.

Related Posts