What Are the Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush?
An electric toothbrush is not required for clean and healthy teeth (a manual toothbrush will work just fine), but some research suggests that it can better help in maintaining gum health and reducing tooth decay. An 11-year study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that using an electric toothbrush resulted in 22% less pocket depth and gum recession and 18% less tooth decay progression. Electronic toothbrush users also maintained 19.5% more teeth in the mouth than manual brushers. Other research from 18 studies supports this finding, showing that sonic toothbrushes significantly decreased plaque and gingivitis more effectively than manual toothbrushes over three months.
Electric Toothbrush Features
Powered toothbrushes can also provide benefits through many features that help improve your toothbrushing technique. Some of these include:
Timer. Many electric toothbrush models come with a two-minute timer to encourage you to brush for the entire recommended time. Some brushes buzz or beep every 30 seconds to allow you to spend equal time brushing each quadrant of the mouth.
Pressure sensor. If you tend to over brush, some models include a sensor that activates when you put too much pressure on your teeth and are at risk for abrasion.
Larger handle. Powered toothbrushes come with wide, comfortable handles that make it easier for those with arthritis and certain medical conditions to grip or use than a conventional brush.
Cleaning modes. Some electric brushes come with different modes, so you can choose how your toothbrush cleans certain teeth in your mouth based on your oral hygiene goals. For example, some have a mode for sensitive teeth to provide a more gentle cleaning.
Reminders. Your powered toothbrush might also remind you to change the brush head every three months to increase cleanliness and prevent brushing your teeth with worn toothbrush bristles.
What Electric Toothbrush Should I Use?
The best electric toothbrush for you is the one you feel the most comfortable using. Sufficient evidence exists to support the use of both oscillating rotary toothbrushes or sonic toothbrushes, and your choice depends on personal preference. Still, it's more important that you focus on achieving proper brushing technique. When choosing the best electric toothbrush for you, look for:
Ease of use. Your toothbrush should make brushing more comfortable, not more complicated.
Comfortable design. The handle should be easy to grip, and the brush head and bristle design should accommodate your mouth.
Soft bristles. Choose soft bristles to clean your teeth without damaging your gums or tooth enamel.
