Are Electric Toothbrushes Worth the Investment?
- May 31 2024
Electric toothbrushes have steadily grown in popularity over recent years. But if you’ve been using a standard toothbrush all your life without facing any significant dental issues, you may be wondering just how much more you can get out of going electric.
To decide whether an electric toothbrush is right for you, take a closer look at the differences between traditional and electric toothbrushes.
The Job of Your Toothbrush
If you really want to know whether or not investing in a quality electric toothbrush is worthwhile, you first need to consider what you hope it might do for you. Brushing your teeth is partially about keeping your smile looking bright white and sparkling clean, but your toothbrush is an indispensable tool for more than just that reason.
A good toothbrush should be capable of removing food debris and built-up plaque from your teeth and gums so that decay-causing bacteria are not allowed to grow in your mouth. Because of this, it stands to reason that if an electric toothbrush does an even better job of this, then it should be a great investment.
But does an electric toothbrush deliver a better clean than a traditional one?
The Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush
Opting for a high-quality electric toothbrush over your manual one has the potential to offer these important benefits:
A Deeper Clean
The electric-powered bristles of an electric toothbrush can move far faster than your hand is capable of, allowing it to remove plaque and any remaining food debris in your mouth faster and more effectively than a manual toothbrush.
Ease of Use
Just like any electric-powered version of a traditionally manual tool, electric toothbrushes make the job they’re designed for an easier one. By applying gentle pressure, you can let your toothbrush handle the rest.
Additionally, most electric toothbrushes come with timed options, so you don’t have to worry about whether you’ve brushed long enough.
Fun for Kids
For many parents, getting little ones to brush thoroughly can be a difficult task. However, an electric brush can potentially make that task much easier. Children often prefer the easy glide of an electric toothbrush, and sometimes, they even find it fun.
Potential Drawbacks of an Electric Toothbrush
One of the major issues associated with an electric toothbrush is operator mistake and not knowing the correct method of use. Electric toothbrushes are powerful enough to be damaging to your teeth and gum when improperly used. Some important issues you must be aware of are:
- Only a soft-bristled electric toothbrush must be purchased.
- Use a light touch when brushing your teeth.
- Do not leave the brush running in one spot in the mouth for too long.
- Use the lowest power setting when possible.
There are a few other potential drawbacks to consider when it comes to going electric, including:
Cost
An electric toothbrush will typically cost you more than a traditional one, particularly if you’re interested in models with more features. You won’t save on replacements, either, as your brush heads will wear down at the same rate as any traditional brush will.
Power
You do need to provide your electric toothbrush with power. This can be an inconvenience if you forget to charge your toothbrush and leave you needing to brush manually anyway.
Is an electric toothbrush for me?
So is an electric toothbrush worth the investment? The answer depends on your personal needs and budget.
If you want a more effective oral hygiene routine with greater convenience, an electric toothbrush may be the way to go. But if you don’t have the budget to invest in that upfront cost, manual toothbrushes are also highly effective in protecting your smile.
Ultimately, as long as you are brushing properly and following a regular routine, you can keep your smile healthy and bright.
Protect Your Smile With Help From Payam Cohen DDS, PC
No matter which type of toothbrush you choose, regular visits to the dentist are essential. At Payam Cohen DDS, PC, we take pride in changing lives by creating beautiful smiles. We serve families in Forest Hills, NY, and the surrounding area. Contact us at (718) 793-6669 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Payam Cohen today.
Categories: General Dentistry