When most people think about their oral hygiene, the first thing that comes to mind is brushing their teeth—but have you ever wondered just how effective your toothbrush actually is? Perhaps you’ve seen some of the commercials and advertisements out there for electric toothbrushes, but you aren’t sure if they’re a better option than your tried-and-true manual brush. Your dentist in Florence has more about some of the benefits of each, so you can pick the best brush for cleaning your pearly whites.
Electric Toothbrushes
Technology makes our lives easier on a daily basis, and the electric toothbrush is a prime example of this. Consider the following advantages to using one:
- Effectiveness – Studies show that electric toothbrushes can reduce the presence of plaque by up to 21% and the presence of gingivitis by up to 11% after just three months of use, when compared to manual brushes.
- Easy-to-use – Electric toothbrushes do most of the work for you! This is especially helpful for patients with limited mobility, such as those who suffer from arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. They’re also easier for children to operate.
Manual Toothbrushes
Manual toothbrushes have been helping us clean our teeth for centuries—and while they aren’t as fancy or sophisticated as electric toothbrushes, they’re still effective and can offer the following benefits:
- Accessibility – You can pick up a manual toothbrush at almost any grocery store, pharmacy, or gas station—they’re everywhere! They’re also quite cost-effective and usually don’t cost more than a couple of bucks (whereas electric brushes are typically pricier).
- Control – Manual toothbrushes offer the user full control of the cleaning process, which is great for users with sensitive teeth and gums as they can manage the speed and amount of pressure being applied.
Which Brush Is Best for My Smile?
The bottom line is that both electric and manual toothbrushes are effective at cleaning teeth if you use a proper brushing technique. That said, be sure you’re brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth and gums. Also ensure that you’re replacing the brush or brush head every 3 – 4 months; worn and frayed bristles won’t clean your pearly whites!
Overall, an electric toothbrush might make brushing easier which can result in better plaque removal—but a manual toothbrush can also get the job done if that’s your preference! Talk with your dentist if you have any questions about which toothbrush might be best for you.
About the Practice
The team at Florence Dental Studio is honored to serve patients and families in the Florence, NJ area. The practice is led by Dr. Joseph Montalbano and Dr. Dara Nikoonezhad. Together they combine several years of experience to provide an exceptional level of dental care, and they’re proud to offer a wide range of available services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, you can contact the practice online or over the phone: (609) 499-3800.
