Which toothbrush is best for you?

Manual brushing is dependent on the individual’s technique. With proper technique and the right bristles it can be just as effective as using an electronic toothbrush. The problem is, many people have been doing it wrong their whole life. Don’t be shy, ask your hygienist if you are doing it right.

An electronic sonic toothbrush, such as a sonicare, uses sonic waves to help clean your teeth effectively. The “sonic” cleaning action drives fluid between teeth which in turn gently and effectively removes plaque between the teeth and at gum line. A more recent feature is a pressure sensor that alerts you when you are applying too much pressure.  This helps reduce aggressive brushing, which could harm your gums. Sonicare’s clinical studies claim to removes 7 times more plaque than a manual toothbrush.

Other electric brushes also claim to leave teeth cleaner, and in some instances, whiter, than conventional brushes.  Oral B claims their electric brushes will remove 100% more plaque than brushing with a manual brush.  The Oral B brushes also come with a host of features, such as timers to insure appropriate brushing time and a pressure sensor.

Some newer electric brushes also connect via bluetooth to smartphones.  This enables you track brushing time and progress.  These features are particularly good for monitoring children’s oral health habits.  Some children-specific brushes even reward the child for brushing in all four quadrants for appropriate amounts of time.

At the end of the day it all comes down to the user. If you are an effective brusher, and you floss regularly, a manual toothbrush may be a great choice. However, for those that, brush too aggressively, have a hard time holding a brush, or would benefit from the extra features of today’s electric brushes, an electric brush may be the right choice.  Ask your dentist about a brush and brushing techniques that may be best for you.