Properly brushing your teeth at least twice a day is the foundation for good dental hygiene. But, what’s the best way to do so, and what are the proper techniques? Should you invest in an electric toothbrush or continue brushing with a manual one? Let’s take a look. 

Electric Toothbrushes

In the past decade or so, electric toothbrushes have grown significantly in popularity. More people realize the importance of proper oral hygiene and recognize that an electric toothbrush can make that easier. 

Electric toothbrushes have been proven to decrease the amount of plaque in your mouth and the chances of gingivitis. They’re also ‘easier’ to use, as the brush, itself, does most of the work for you. Furthermore, electric toothbrushes have timers for two minutes so that you know that you’ve spent enough time working on those pearly whites. Many electric toothbrushes today also vibrate every 30 seconds, allowing you to move from one-quarter of your mouth to another, and so on, until your two minutes are finished. 

It’s no secret that kids don’t like to brush their teeth. Electric toothbrushes make it fun for them and encourage healthier oral habits. Many children’s toothbrushes even play a song or tune for two minutes, making it seem more like a fun playtime activity than a healthy chore, as many children see it. 

While there are many benefits to electric toothbrushes, the main negative attribute is the cost. Electric toothbrushes range in price but are oftentimes much more expensive than manual toothbrushes. On top of the base price, you also have to pay for brush heads, which you should replace every three months. 

Manual Toothbrushes

We are all familiar with manual toothbrushes; it’s what we grew up with and many people still use them today. Manual toothbrushes are inexpensive, can be found anywhere, and can be used anywhere. They even come in travel sizes, to keep in your purse, work bag, or desk – you never know when you might need a quick brush. 

When done correctly, manual toothbrushes are quite effective at removing plaque. The proper technique for manual brushing is simple, although many people tend to apply more pressure and brush harder when using a manual toothbrush, oftentimes resulting in damaged teeth or gums. If you are committed to your manual toothbrush, first make sure you are using the right-sized brush for your mouth. Also, ensure that you use a soft-bristled brush, as hard bristles can irritate your gums.

Manual toothbrushes do not come with a timer, causing many people to brush for less than the recommended two minutes. Setting a timer on your phone, however, can counteract this. 

While electric toothbrushes can be ‘fun’ for kids, starting them with a manual toothbrush may be better. When babies get their first teeth, there is no need to use an electric toothbrush; a gentle, manual toothbrush meant for young children is preferable. This continues for the next few years. After that, whatever they are most comfortable with is the best option. Some children may find the vibrations strange, which could turn them off even more from brushing their teeth. To find out what’s best for your child, talk to them! They’ll let you know which they prefer and you can help them from there. 

The Bottom Line

Depending on your lifestyle choices, age, and price point, there are pros and cons to electric and manual toothbrushes. While electric toothbrushes are easier to use and help your teeth receive a better clean, they are not for everyone.

At Cakmes Dental Studio, we treat each patient with the individual care and attention that they deserve. We are always happy to help our patients in their oral care journey, so give us a call if you have any questions or want to know if an electric toothbrush or manual toothbrush is right for you.

Maintaining proper dental hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth in great condition and free from disease. Oftentimes, we may underestimate how much of a role our oral health plays in contributing to our body’s overall health. One of the best ways to promote good dental hygiene is through daily brushing and flossing. These two relatively quick tasks can make a lifetime of difference in keeping your oral health in the best possible shape.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that all adults brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. The first step to correct brushing is using the right toothbrush and being sure to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles become frayed. Brushing your teeth removes plaque from your teeth which, if not removed, can quickly lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Proper brushing also prevents any cavities from forming which can cause significant damage if ignored. From a more social perspective, failing to brush your teeth will lead to bad breath in no time, making you less confident interacting and talking with others.

While flossing plays just as important of a role in maintaining proper dental hygiene as brushing, the ADA estimates that only 32% of adults floss every day. Working the floss in between each of your teeth allows you to reach areas where food is more likely to get stuck and areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing helps prevent bacteria growth, especially at the gum line where there is a greater possibility for infection and irritation. 

Preventative dental hygiene is the best way to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy. Not to mention, it also saves time, money, and any pain that you may experience as a result of putting off those key daily healthy oral habits, like brushing and flossing. 

In conjunction with daily brushing and flossing, routine dental checkups help keep your oral health on the right track. Cakmes Dental Studio is here for all of your dental needs and can catch any potential issues before they become too serious. Call our office today to schedule an appointment or visit our website to learn more about the services we offer!