By: General Dentist Ekta Desai
The way we think about purchasing goods and services is incredibly different than we did 10, even 5, years ago. With the ability to order just about everything online and the reduced need to think about it, consumerism has changed drastically.
In the last few years, subscription opportunities have skyrocketed. You can have your contacts delivered to your door every month without thinking about it. And now, there are many types of toothbrushes that can be delivered to your door, as well as replacement electric heads, floss, and toothpaste.
Earlier this year, CNN reported that over one million individuals are subscribed to receive dental supplies quarterly at one subscription company alone. Companies such as Quip, Burst, and Toothbrush Hub offer electric toothbrushes with quarterly head and toothpaste shipments. Others such as Morgans and Boka offer manual toothbrushes with toothpaste, floss, and other supplies shipped as frequently as you decide.
I get questions from my patients frequently about electric toothbrushes vs. manual toothbrushes. They’re curious if one cleans better than the other—especially since toothbrush subscription services are more prevalent now.
But whether you’re ready to jump on the subscription train or not, the common question still stands:
“Which is better, an electric or manual toothbrush?”
Electric Toothbrushes vs. Manual
Like anything, there are costs and benefits to either choice and ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and needs.
An electric toothbrush serves as a benefit to those with limited manual dexterity since the electric toothbrush performs the cleaning action for you.
With a manual toothbrush, you must complete the cleaning action on your own, moving the brush from tooth to tooth, which is more work compared to an electric toothbrush.
The electric toothbrush has several built-in features, many coming with timers so you know exactly how long you’ve been brushing. Others have pressure sensors, letting you know how hard you’ve been brushing.
The cost of manual and electric toothbrushes varies greatly, with manual toothbrushes being much cheaper. Electric toothbrushes have a high-cost upfront and require charging, battery replacement, and head replacement.
Effectiveness of Electric Toothbrushes
You are likely to get more plaque off hard-to-reach places with electric toothbrushes, which is a result of the oscillating motion. However, with the proper technique, manual toothbrushes can be equally as effective.
Electric toothbrushes are not a substitution for flossing; despite their ability to remove more plaque, it is still important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day. Both toothbrushes can be equally as effective if you are using the proper technique and brushing for the correct amount of time.
If you have additional questions about electric toothbrushes vs. manual toothbrushes, my team is happy to answer any questions! Just request an appointment at the button below and we’ll help decide what toothbrush is best for you.
Meet Dr. Ekta Desai
Dr. Desai is a general dentist at Dental Associates Wauwatosa. Get to know her by visiting her profile page: General Dentist Ekta Desai
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