Electric vs Manual Toothbrushes
Electric vs manual toothbrushes: Is one better than the other? Both types of tooth brush will do the job if used correctly. Watch the video to learn more about the proper way of brushing your teeth.
Expert: Paul Fletcher, DDS Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Specialized Dentistry of New York
Transcript
When it comes to your teeth, you want the best cleaning possible. But which toothbrush does the job better, a manual or electric – the answer? Well, they’re both good, as long as you use them correctly. Now here’s how to decide which brush is best for you.
Manual toothbrushes are generally inexpensive, don’t require batteries, and come in many sizes and shapes. For instance, the bristles can be flat, jagged, pointed, or have rubber spacers.
Textured brushes with a wavy or v-pattern are intended to CLEAN the gums around your teeth in addition to cleaning your teeth better.
Brushes that come to a POINT at the tip claim to get into those tough, hard to reach places.
But the truth is, if used correctly, ANY type of brush will do the job as long as you use it so it comfortably reaches all areas of the mouth. For best results, you want to make sure the bristles of the brush touch BOTH your teeth AND your gums . Use the top end of the brush to reach the trickier areas behind your front and bottom teeth and the backside of your last molars.
If getting at hard-to-reach places is tough OR if you’re a little lazy when it comes to brushing, an ELECTRIC toothbrush could be your best bet. Studies show that the oscillating heads help remove plaque easier and can DECREASE your chances of getting gingivitis.
There are two types of electric toothbrushes: Traditional models, which mimic the motion of your hand while brushing. And SONIC brushes where the head rotates and moves back and forth in extremely fast vibrations, POTENTIALLY cleaning off more plaque.
Electric toothbrushes do clean FASTER, and some have TIMERS built in to make sure you pay equal attention to ALL sections of your mouth, ideally about 30 seconds in each quarter. Initially, brushing properly may cause your gums to bleed a bit but this will stop as your gums adjust.
Whether you choose an electric OR manual brush, find one that lets you easily get to tight spaces from different angles. And be sure to replace your hand brush or the electric brush head every three to four months as the bristles spread apart and become worn.
And remember, if your brushing technique isn’t right, it doesn’t matter what brush you’re using, your teeth are going to pay the price… in gum disease and cavities. For more tips on how to keep your mouth sparkling, check out the rest of the videos on this site.
Last Modified: 2012-11-17
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Category: Health and Nutrition, Videos
