Manual Vs Electric Toothbrushes, Which is better?
Most people do not give their toothbrush a whole lot of thought. Those 2 minutes in the morning that are spent with a toothbrush are immediately forgotten during a hectic day. Brushing again when you are tired in the evening means that you probably will not give your toothbrush a second thought. No one really imagines that it might be particularly important to choose the right toothbrush for your daily routine. Today’s market includes toothbrushes with power options and replaceable heads in the same aisle with those old-fashioned manual brushes. Is there really a difference between the electric and manual toothbrushes other than the battery? The American Dental Association believes that there is a large difference, especially for children.
Manual toothbrushes provide the same hygienic service that electric toothbrushes provide, but they require a little more manpower. The American Dental Association agrees that manual toothbrushes can be just as effective as an electric toothbrush, but there are some significant exceptions to this rule. A manual toothbrush has to be used properly in order to function as it is intended. Brushing with a manual toothbrush must include both circular motions and coverage of the gums as well as the teeth. Many people, especially those with arthritic conditions, find it easier to perform these motions with an electric toothbrush.
Manual toothbrushes are inexpensive and they travel well. A manual toothbrush can be purchased for less than $2 in most grocery stores or drugstores. This means that anyone can buy a manual toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes tend to cost a bit more and might not be on the shelves at every store. A manual toothbrush fits well inside a purse or small bag, making it easy to take with you to the office or when traveling. Those larger electric toothbrushes are not as easy to fit in a small carry-on bag at the airport.
A manual toothbrush is easy for a child to use but does not provide the fun features of an electric toothbrush. This is an important issue because getting a child excited about using a toothbrush is not an easy task. Bright lights, flashing buttons and even silly songs can be found in electric toothbrushes. These extras can make the difference between a child who things that brushing teeth is a terrible chore and a child who enjoys the process. An electric toothbrush can be a bit harder to hold in a child’s small hands, so manual toothbrushes are best for very young children.
Whether you choose a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush, the key to a clean mouth is in using it correctly. No matter which type you prefer, proper brushing techniques are much more important than toothbrush style.
