Oral hygiene plays a significant role in your overall health. Most people don’t realize the part of good oral hygiene and its impact on the body. Gum disease is a considerable risk factor and can lead to serious health issues like diabetes and heart problems. During the early stages of childhood, parents teach children the importance of teeth cleaning and brushing regularly. It is also essential to see a dentist regularly and get dental cleaning done so that you can maintain good health. That said, wondering which brush to choose? Here is a look at manual brushing vs. electric toothbrushes.
Manual Brushing
The choice of a toothbrush is very personal. With a handheld toothbrush, you brush longer and pay attention to brushing patterns. The advantages of a manual toothbrush are:
· Cheap and easy to find
· Choice of heads, styles, and bristle strength
· Easy portability
· No need for power cords or batteries
· Easy to replace
Some disadvantages to a manual toothbrush are:
· Kids find it hard to use, especially when they are learning to brush
· Difficult for people who have disabilities
· No timer
Using electric toothbrushes
Between a manual toothbrush and an electric, the electric toothbrush has a slight edge. It is easier for children to use. They can later learn how to use a manual toothbrush as they get older. It is also a good option for people with specific disabilities. In both cases, dentists recommend that users get soft-bristled brushes. Medium and stiff bristles can cause gum damage and even damage tooth enamel if misused. Advantages of using an electric toothbrush are:
· Easy to use for those who have braces
· No dexterity issues for children or the elderly, or even those with disabilities
· Availability of moving heads, rotation, and other movements
· Encourages brushing
· Easy to carry
Disadvantages of owning and using an electric toothbrush are:
· Expensive to buy
· Easily damaged
· Need batteries or must be charged regularly
Which is better?
If you are trying to decide to switch from a manual to an electric toothbrush, know that both are good. One is not better than the other. There are some things to consider in either case.
· Make sure to get a size that fits in your mouth easily. The head of the brush should help you access the surface of every tooth easily and have a good handle.
· Consider bristle variety as well. Since there are soft, medium, and stiff bristles, you should ask your dentist to recommend which to buy. Soft-bristled brushes are the best choice. These will not damage your teeth or gums if you brush vigorously.
· Pick a brush that the ADA has approved. This indicates that both manual and electric brushes have been tested rigorously.
The above tips hold true for manual and electric toothbrushes during the buying process. When in doubt, ask your dentist to recommend a brush. Dentists usually hand out sample brushes and floss to patients at every appointment. They also recommend the correct brushing method so that patients don’t develop dental problems.
Regardless of which toothbrush you choose to use, ensure you brush your teeth regularly and floss as well. Both types are effective at teeth cleaning and maintaining good oral hygiene. Make sure you see your dentist regularly for a checkup and dental cleaning. Doing so will help you have good, strong teeth and stay healthy.