Is an Electric Toothbrush More Effective?

July 9, 2019

When it comes to brushing your teeth, people have the choice between using a regular
toothbrush and an electric one. With a regular toothbrush, your movement of the brush removes plaque from your teeth. However, with an electric toothbrush, it spins and does all the work for you—you just need to hold it where you want to brush!

But are electric toothbrushes actually more effective than manual ones? Here’s what research has to say about whether or not an electric toothbrush could get your teeth cleaner.

Electric Toothbrushes May Remove More Plaque

Some research shows that electric toothbrushes may remove more plaque—the substance responsible for tooth decay and gum disease—from the teeth. In one study, electric toothbrushes removed 21 percent more plaque compared to manual [1].

Electric toothbrushes could be more effective for people who have a lot of plaque in their mouths or have existing problems such as tooth decay and gum disease as the result of plaque.

Going Electric May Help Improve Gum Health

Because electric toothbrushes can remove more plaque, they allow people to clean their teeth in a way they otherwise wouldn’t, which can improve gum health [2].

Electric toothbrushes also tend to be a bit gentler on the teeth, which can be helpful for people who brush their teeth too hard with a manual toothbrush. Brushing too hard is a common cause of enamel damage and gum recession, so using a battery-operated brush may help people who have existing recessive or sensitive gum tissue.

Electric May Be More Effective for Some People

Switching from a manual toothbrush to an electric one may be more effective for people who have trouble manipulating their movements, such as people who are older, people who have health conditions such as arthritis, or even children [3].

These individuals may find it easier to operate an electric toothbrush to see a greater impact on the health and cleanliness of smiles rather than attempting to use a manual brush with limited control over its movement.

Brushing Is Important Regardless of What Method You Use

While some evidence shows battery-operated toothbrushes can be more effective at cleaning your teeth and gums, other oral health professionals say that as long as you’re brushing and flossing, it doesn’t really matter which one you use [4]. Whether you prefer a manual or electric toothbrush, it’s essential to keep up with brushing your teeth twice a day for best results!

Are you an electric toothbrush user or do you prefer a regular toothbrush? As long as you’re brushing your teeth and keeping your regular dental appointments, choose whichever toothbrush you enjoy using the most!