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Do Electric Toothbrushes Work Better Than Manual Ones?

Cartoon of three electric toothbrushes on a stage to see who is the best.
Image by Authority Dental under CC 2.0

There are some classic consumer debates. Which is best, crunchy peanut butter or smooth? Do you prefer an electric grill or gas? Do you drink Coke, Dr. Pepper or Pepsi? In the dental world we have our own debate involving manual and electric toothbrushes. We love that there’s a discussion going on about the best product to use to brush your teeth. Because after all, clean teeth are the basis of a healthy smile, no matter how you choose to clean them. Whether you’ve already chosen a side or you find yourself on the fence and need some direction, here’s what we have to say about the great dental debate.

The Winner in Performance

Even though manual toothbrushes are still effective at removing plaque, we have to give the crown to electric toothbrushes in terms of the level of performance they provide. With their rotating motion, electric toothbrushes generally do a better job at getting rid of plaque, preventing cavities, and keeping gum disease at bay.

Other Benefits of Electric Toothbrushes

There are some other reasons why we like electric toothbrushes. For one, it’s less likely that you’re going to brush too aggressively with them. With a manual toothbrush you can press too hard on your gums and cause damage, especially with a hard bristled brush. Additionally, many electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers so you’re sure to brush for the recommended two minutes each time. The heads on electric toothbrushes are also better able to reach tight spaces toward the back of the mouth.

Preventive Dental Care at Chaney Dental

We know that electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual toothbrushes, but if you can afford one, it’s a worthwhile investment in your oral health. If you’re looking for more advice on how to maintain a healthy smile, feel free to reach out to us at Chaney Dental. At our Prairie Village practice, we offer a wide range of services for patients of all ages! Give us a call to schedule your next appointment.

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