Regular vs. Electric Toothbrush: Which is the Better Option in the Gold Coast?

Brushing your teeth twice a day with toothpasteis the foundation of good oral care. Both an electric and a manual toothbrush are effective at removing oral plaque and preventing decay and disease. While both options work well, they also each have their own unique benefits. The Dental Boutique offer some expert tips to help you decide which to choose for yourself.

Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush

​​Electric toothbrush bristles vibrate and/or rotate, helping to remove more plaque on your teeth and gums due to the added micro-movements as you move your toothbrush across your teeth. Since they do most of the work for you, they can be a great option for anyone with limited hand mobility, from conditions such as carpal tunnel and arthritis. Since you only need to replace the heads, an electric toothbrush can also be less wasteful.

Many electric toothbrushes include an in-built timer to ensure you brush for at least two minutes and across all four quadrants of your mouth. In some cases, an electric toothbrush can even have a warning light that alerts you if you are applying too much pressure. An electric toothbrush can also be great for kids who are reluctant to brush, as they can seem more fun for them to use.

Downsides of an Electric Toothbrush

The main downside is that an electric toothbrush is almost always going to be more expensive. Finding the right replacement toothbrush head may not always be easy, since not all stores carry them, and your local stores may not have the correct brand. You can purchase them online, but it’s not a great option if you need one right away.

Benefits of a Manual Toothbrush

A classic toothbrush isn’t as flashy, but they are more economical and often come in a wider variety of options. You can get large, medium or small toothbrush heads and you can choose from varying softness, depending on your sensitivity. Many manual toothbrushes have a specialised tongue cleaner on the back as well. Since they’re small, they also tend to be more convenient for traveling.

You can find a manual toothbrush at almost any grocery store, petrol station, or pharmacy for as little as $2-3. They also don’t need to be charged, so you can use a manual toothbrush anywhere, anytime.

Downsides of a Manual Toothbrush

Manual toothbrush users are at greater risk of brushing too hard compared to electric toothbrush users. Brushing too hard can hurt your gums and teeth. Using a manual toothbrush can also make it more difficult to know if you’re brushing long enough, potentially encouraging lazy oral hygiene habits.

Expert Tips on Brushing and Toothpaste

No matter what toothbrush you use, the most important thing is that you brush properly with the right toothpaste. Use fluoride toothpaste and brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and gently clean all plaque from your teeth and gum line without pressing too hard. Flossing once a day is also just as important as brushing with fluoride toothpaste for maintaining oral health. Visiting your dentist twice a year for a check up and professional clean is also important for the longevity of your oral health.

Dental Checkups in the Gold Coast

At The Dental Boutique, we believe you deserve amazing care, which is why our Gold Coast dentists’ approach is focused on our relationship with you. We can offer you expert tips about the important connections between oral health and general health and answer any questions you may have. Contact our team today to make an appointment and schedule in your Biofilm Therapy Appointment.