Choosing the right toothbrush is important for not only dental health but also your overall well being. There are certain characteristics you should look for when you are choosing a manual brush or an electric one.
Size: For adults, a toothbrush head that is one-half-inch wide and one inch tall will be the most effective and easiest to use. There are larger sizes available, but they can be difficult for hard-to-reach areas. The handle should be long enough to comfortably hold in your hand.
Bristles: A soft bristle brush will be the best option for most adults. Depending on how vigorous you brush your teeth and the strength of your teeth, hard bristled and medium brushes could damage the gums and tooth enamel. The bristles should have rounded tips.
Expert Recommendation: To make sure the toothbrush you choose has undergone quality control tests, toothbrushes should have the ADA seal of approval. This means that manual brushes will have bristles that don’t fall out under typical brushing conditions and can withstand use. It also means that electric toothbrushes have been made safe for the mouth, teeth, and any dental hardware.
Choosing between a manual and electric toothbrush can also depend on a few factors. With a proper brushing technique, you can still get a good cleaning from either type of brush.
Cost: There are some affordable electric toothbrush options, but they can be more expensive to purchase initially. The replacement brush heads also add an extra cost.
Likability: Some people don’t like the vibrating feeling of an electric toothbrush, but some find it easier to clean with, such as those with limited mobility. Some powered brushes have a timer feature, which many users also like.
Effectiveness: Many studies have been done to show that there isn’t a significant difference between manual and electric toothbrushes regarding cleaning ability.
Safety: For individuals who tend to brush hard, a powered toothbrush may make it easier to be gentler on gums and still get everything clean. Some studies show that an electric toothbrush may increase the number of bacteria in the bloodstream, which wouldn’t pose a risk for those with healthy immune systems but could be a problem for those with certain heart conditions.
