Finding the Right Toothbrush: The Pros and Cons of Using a Manual Toothbrush

Manual toothbrushes are by far the most common type of toothbrush used. While they do not have the many of the add-ons you will find with an electric toothbrush, you can still keep your teeth and gums healthy with one. Check out some of the advantages of choosing a “regular” toothbrush over an electric one. If you are ready to see your dentist, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161.

Pro: Manual Toothbrushes Are Easier to Find

While you might find electric toothbrushes are your local drug store and at your local dentist’s office, they are not likely to be found at the grocery store or gas station. On the other hand, you can find a manual toothbrush in these and many other places. If you forget yours while on vacation, it is likely that your hotel’s front desk even has one for you.

Pro: Manual Toothbrushes Are Much More Affordable

You can buy a manual toothbrush for between $1 and $3. Even if you buy your child a brand-name, Disney character toothbrush, it will rarely be more than $5. All that said, many people never buy a toothbrush because they get one for free at every six-month dental cleaning. You can also get them for free as giveaways from various companies, at Halloween, and in welcome packages at many hotels. In short, cost is not an issue when it comes to manual toothbrushes.

Cons: You Will Not Get as Good of a Clean

Study after study has shown that manual toothbrushes simply cannot get the teeth and gums as clean as an electric toothbrush can. If you want the best possible clean, then your options are limited to electric toothbrushes.

Cons: It is Easy to Brush Too Hard

Many people are not aware of just how damaging it can be to brush too hard. When they do, they can injure their gums and cause serious issues. Studies have shown that they are more likely to brush too hard if they are using a manual toothbrush versus an electric toothbrush. If you are going to using a manual toothbrush, stick with one that has soft bristles.

Cons: You Might Not Brush Long Enough

Electric toothbrushes have built-in timers so that users know exactly when their time is up. Studies have shown that when a person just guesses how long they have been brushing, they generally think they have been brushing longer than they actually have. An electric toothbrush takes out the guesswork.

If you are not sure what toothbrush is best for you, or if you would like advice from an experienced dentist, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment. We will start with a cleaning and exam, and then we can go over best practices for at-home care.