It is easy to understand that power or electric toothbrushes provide better plaque removal than hand toothbrushes. These brushes provide the action for you. Because of this, many people find they are easier to use than manual brushes. Because of the wide variety available, it is easy to find one specific to your needs.
That makes electric toothbrushes very popular. Mintel, a consumer marketing analysis firm, says that about 36 percent of adults use an electric toothbrush. They are more popular for those who have incomes of 75,000 or more and among people over 55. This is likely because of the cost difference.
How They Help
A 2005 independent study showed that an electric toothbrush bristle movement may help with removing food, plaque, and improve gum health.
Other Features to Help
In addition to the improvement in ease of use and cleanliness from electric toothbrushes, there is also a range of features that help adults and children of all ages and varying oral health get clean, healthy mouths. These include:
- Reminders to replace brush heads
- Timers to ensure you brush for long enough
- Various settings, including for sensitive teeth
- Smart features to track your brushing progress
Research Confirms Electric Toothbrushes Help Significantly
A 2014 study review by Cochrane Collaboration, an independent research team, found that electric brushes have an advantage when it comes to cleaning. The study also showed that gingivitis patients saw a 6 percent reduction when used for three months and an 11 percent reduction when used for more than three months. The researchers looked at 56 trials covering more than 5,000 people. In addition to the benefits to those with gingivitis, they found a reduction in plaque by 11 percent in three months and a 21 percent reduction when used longer.
The research also shows that oscillating heads, those that moved in one direction and then the other, were a bit better than sonic powered at reducing plaque.
A 2019 German study in Clinical Periodontology found that electric brushes improved gum health. Here, nearly 3,000 people were followed for 11 years. The study showed a reduction in periodontal disease. Electric toothbrush users kept roughly 19 percent more teeth than manual toothbrush users.
Selecting an Electric Toothbrush
You want to select an electric toothbrush that is easy to hold and use. Your dentist may suggest one that has a rotating-oscillating head or rotates in one direction and then another. They may also suggest fast vibrating bristles. There are other features you may select from, such as timers, power levels, and rechargeable batteries. When in doubt, ask Dr. Dhiraj Sharma for advice on choosing your toothbrush.
Regardless of whether you are using manual or electric toothbrushes, the most important thing to remember is to floss and brush daily. Dental professionals agree that twice a day brushing for two minutes or more is the best way to help your oral health.
This is the best way of removing the germy filth that coats your teeth, otherwise known as plaque.
When deciding which brush is best, your general health and age may play a factor in selecting the right toothbrush. This can affect factors such as the grip on the brush and the type of bristle movement.