We all know how important oral hygiene is. It is essential to prevent cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, and other dental problems. Poor oral health has also been linked to an increased risk of other health issues, like heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems. ^[1]

A great oral health routine begins with a great toothbrush. But choosing the right one for you can be confusing. We're taking a deeper dive into the world of toothbrushes, and discuss the things to keep in mind as you choose one for yourself.

Things to consider before buying a toothbrush

Before you select between the two, it's essential to weigh several factors. Manual toothbrushes are often more cost-effective and easily accessible when compared with an electric toothbrush. They are the first things that come to mind when you talk about toothbrushes.

But you can't ignore an electric toothbrush. They take the effort out of brushing. And with advanced features like timers and vibrating heads, they make it more effective

Electric vs Regular Toothbrush - Who Wins the Battle? 

Cost

Manual toothbrushes generally cost much less than electric toothbrushes. But hold on! While this may look like a win for the manual toothbrush, long-term usage tells a different tale. Dentists recommend you replace your toothbrush every 3 months. This means getting a new toothbrush if you go manual. While for electric toothbrushes, you only need to get a new brush head, which is less expensive.

Efficiency

Manual toothbrushes are as effective as the user is. Electric toothbrushes compensate for this by providing a more effective and thorough cleaning. A 2014 ^[2] review  found that electric toothbrushes were more effective at reducing plaque by 11% in the short term, and 21% in the long term.

Brushing Impact

Manual toothbrushes require more effort for an effective cleaning, which can be challenging for some, especially those with limited mobility or dexterity issues. Electric toothbrushes can compensate for improper technique by a more consistent & thorough cleaning.

Ideal Customer

A manual toothbrush is easier to access, and it's perfect for someone who's looking for a compact, portable brush. Electric toothbrushes are great for people who are looking for extra features and consistent cleaning in their toothbrushes.

So, is an electric toothbrush better? The benefits of electric toothbrushes far outweigh the cons. Although they're pricey initially, they offer more value in the long term with replaceable brush heads. They offer a more consistent, effective, and thorough brushing experience. Not to mention additional features that enhance the user's quality of life.

What to consider when buying an electric toothbrush

There are two main types of electric toothbrushes available on the market today.

1. Oscillatory rotary (OR) toothbrushes have circular heads that spin and move back and forth together.

2. Sonic toothbrushes, where the bristles vibrate back and forth at an extremely high speed.

Comparing these two, sonic toothbrushes have an edge over OR toothbrushes. Sonic toothbrushes generally vibrate at 24,000 – 40,000 strokes per minute. Compare this to an average OR toothbrush's 1,300 - 8,800 strokes per minute. Additionally, sonic toothbrushes can clean more effectively, as their bristles can go further between your teeth, in tight spaces, and under the little collar of gum tissue surrounding each of your teeth.

Interestingly enough, a 2016 review^[3] found that toothbrushes with rechargeable batteries were better at removing plaque than those with replaceable batteries.

Explore Caresmith's electric toothbrushes

As far as upgrading your oral care routine goes, you can't go wrong with our Spark family of electric toothbrushes. Our commitment to innovation and quality shines throughout the range.

The Spark One, our entry-level brush, delivers a powerful cleaning experience with 30,000 vibrations per minute and a replaceable battery design.

For those seeking a rechargeable option, the Spark takes brushing to the next level with up to 40,000 strokes per minute and six dynamic brushing modes, ensuring a personalised and effective clean every time.

Designed with the high-spirited Gen-Z in mind, the Spark Z combines superior performance with a bold and stylish design. Available in two striking colours, it allows you to make a statement without compromising your oral hygiene.

At the peak sits the Spark Infinity, boasting a top-of-the-line feature set and unparalleled design. This premium electric toothbrush delivers an exceptional brushing experience, combining cutting-edge technology with a sleek and modern aesthetic.

Our Spark line of electric toothbrushes is a testament to our dedication to providing innovative solutions for better oral health. With a focus on performance, versatility, and style, these electric toothbrushes are designed to elevate your brushing routine and promote a healthier, brighter smile.

In conclusion, choosing between electric and manual toothbrushes ultimately depends on individual preferences, oral health needs, and budget considerations. Both options can be effective when used correctly, but electric toothbrushes offer additional features that enhance the brushing experience and promote better oral health outcomes. Ultimately, you should consider your requirements and consult your dentist to determine the best toothbrush for your oral care routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do dentists prefer electric toothbrushes?

Yes. Most dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush over a manual one for more effective plaque removal and cleaner teeth. Electric toothbrushes provide consistent power and oscillating/rotating motions that help dislodge and sweep away plaque better than manual brushing. 

2. Why is an electric toothbrush better than a regular one?

An electric toothbrush is better than a manual one because it provides more consistent power and motion to remove plaque more effectively. They also have extra features like built-in timers, ensuring the user brushes for the recommended duration. 

3. Is it worth switching to an electric toothbrush?

Yes, it's worth switching to an electric toothbrush. They're better at removing plaque and reducing gum inflammation when compared to manual toothbrushes.

4. What are the cons of manual toothbrushes?

The main cons of using a manual toothbrush compared to an electric one are:

• It provides inconsistent brushing motions that are less effective at removing plaque buildup.

• There's no timer to ensure you brush for the full recommended time.

• It can be difficult to keep a proper brushing technique and apply the right amount of pressure.

• It's harder to clean hard-to-reach areas of your mouth effectively.