When you pop into your local drug store the toothbrush aisle has become a lot more complicated. There are not only electric toothbrushes available, but many different kinds of both manual and electric/battery operated options making it difficult to know which is better for your oral health. Here is a comparison between the two to help you choose the one that is right for you.

Electric

Electric toothbrushes come in both electric and battery operated options. Electric toothbrushes can be helpful as they do all the work for you and even have a timer that will turn your toothbrush off to indicate you have brushed the recommended amount of time. However they are also considerably more expensive than a manual toothbrush and when sharing the handle with family members can lead to higher potential for spreading illness.

Here are some of the benefits of using an electric toothbrush:

• Many have pressure sensors to signal when you are brushing too hard. This is good as too much pressure can lead to issues such as painful receding gums.
• Timers will help you know how long you have brushed and some models will even time each quadrant so you know you have brushed long enough and can move on to the next section.
• Some have reminders that will let you know it is time for a new brush head.
• Features of electric toothbrushes can assist in more effective brushing such as oscillating-rotating or sonic technology.
• Multiple brush-head compatibility makes it user friendly for families and you can each choose the kind of bristle you prefer. Your bathroom counter will also be neater.

Manual

Manual toothbrushes are certainly the more affordable choice and improvements to the way they are made provide you with some added benefits that make them more effective in cleaning your teeth.

The benefits of manual toothbrushes include:

• Come in a number of new and effective designs including criss-crossed, extra-long or multi-level bristles to reach between teeth and provide a more thorough cleaning.
• Textured bristles also make brushing more efficient.
• Cupped bristle design offers whitening benefits.
• Gum stimulators usually located at the bottom of the handle make it easy to complete your regime without having to use too many products or tools.
• Tongue-cleaner pads help keep your mouth cleaner.
• More hygienic for families each having their own toothbrush, especially when someone is ill.

The bottom line is there is no true advantage to an electric toothbrush. However, they do provide you with an easier more efficient way to keep your teeth clean. Your dentist can help you choose the toothbrush that is best for your needs.

At Heritage Dental Care in Milton their team of dental care professionals provide your family with the dental care you need for excellent dental health.

Visit their website here for more information or call their office at 905-693-0123. You can also email info@heritagedentalcare.ca to learn more.