Are Electric Toothbrushes The Right Choice For Healthy Teeth

However, with the many different kinds of brushes available today – ranging from simple traditional to costly electric versions – are electric toothbrushes worth the added cash?

Although regular toothbrushes can get the job done when used properly, the problem is that many people do not use it for the recommended two minutes, or meticulously brush on every tooth. This is where the extra power of an electric toothbrush comes in handy.

With an electric toothbrush, you can cover a bigger area much faster, allowing you to clean more surfaces in the same amount of time. Brushing by hand makes you do about 300 strokes a minute. With a powered one, you can make thousands of strokes a minute.

Pros of Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes can better clean the teeth compared to the manual ones. Studies have shown that people who used the former have less plaque and gum disease. Also, power toothbrushes are helpful for certain people, especially those who have trouble using their hands.

People who can benefit from electric brushes are children as they think that they are easier and more fun to use; those with braces as these brushes can get in and around the metal parts; and lazy brushes who fail to remove enough plaque with a manual brush.

Cons of Electric Toothbrushes

The main con of powered toothbrushes is the cost. Regular brushes only cost a few dollars, but electric toothbrushes can take you back at least a thousand dollars. Brush head replacements are also needed every few months, so all these extra costs can add up.

Electric brushes can lead to a false sense of accomplishment, making you feel like you are brushing better just because you spent more on an electric toothbrush, even when you actually are not. Also, the power ones are usually bigger and bulkier, making traveling harder.

Buying Electric Toothbrushes

There are many kinds of powered toothbrushes available today, each carrying varied price tags. Whatever kind you decide to buy, make sure to get one that has the seal of the American Dental Association as this means that it is safe and effective.

Still, at the end of the day, the way that you use your toothbrush is more important than the kind of toothbrush you use. Dentists recommend that you use one that has soft bristles twice a day for two minutes each time, along with a fluoride toothpaste.