SHOULD YOU USE A MANUAL OR ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH?

SHOULD YOU USE A MANUAL OR ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH?

Aug 27, 2019

Coke or Pepsi? White or wheat bread? Bacon or sausage? These are all questions that have no correct answer. However, your dentist in Venice has a question that does have an answer: manual or electric toothbrush? So, which one should you use? Read more below to find out which is better for you and your oral health.

What are the facts?

An eleven-year-long study from the Oral Health Foundation has recently proven that people who use an electric toothbrush have fewer cavities, healthier gums, and actually keep their teeth for longer than those who use manual brushes. Because of their oscillating heads, electric toothbrushes are better able to remove harmful plaque from all surfaces of the tooth. At least, all surfaces that are reachable from brushing alone. Flossing should be added to your oral health care routine to clean the areas of your teeth that not even the best electric toothbrush can reach.

Are there other benefits to using an electric toothbrush?

Besides keeping your mouth cleaner, electric toothbrushes have a few advantages over manual ones, such as:

  • Easier to handle for people with dexterity issues like arthritis or carpal tunnel
  • Easier for children to use and can make brushing more fun
  • Automatically apply the right amount of pressure so you’re not too hard on your teeth and gums
  • Many come with timers to let you know when you’ve brushed long enough

How else can you keep your mouth healthy?

As mentioned earlier, regular brushing as well as flossing should be part of your daily routine. There are also a few other steps you can take to keep your oral health in good shape. Here are a few examples:

  • Quit smoking or chewing tobacco products
  • Eat and drink sugary foods and beverages in moderation, and brush afterwards
  • Visit your dentist in Venice every six months for a checkup
  • No matter which toothbrush you use, getting in the habit of brushing is what’s most important. However, if you really want to reap the benefits, you’ll invest in an electric toothbrush.

About the author

Dr. R. Scott Thompson graduated from Emory University School of Dentistry in 1988, and opened his private practice in Venice, FL two years later. He takes time to ask patients what their personal oral health goals are and helps achieve them. To learn more about which kind of toothbrush is right for you, contact Dr. Thompson at (941)-451-5849.