What are the Differences Between Toothbrushes?

Finding the right toothbrush for you should not be difficult, but most of the time it seems like a daunting task due to the limitless choices and styles. The three most common types of toothbrushes can be categorized into manual, electric, and sonic. Toothbrushes can then also be categorized based on their softness or hardness of bristles. Finding the right toothbrush for you is important, but knowing when to replace your toothbrush is just as important. Knowing which style of toothbrush and when to replace it will leave you with a happy and healthy smile.

Toothbrush Style

Manual Toothbrush

Manual toothbrushes are the most accessible and affordable of the toothbrush options. You can find a manual toothbrush at almost every store, including grocery stores and gas stations. Manual toothbrushes do not require batteries or charging. Making them easy to use without having to worry about add ons. Using a manual toothbrush is an affordable and effective way to clean your teeth. Many manual toothbrushes can be purchased for less than $5. When purchasing one of these cost effective toothbrushes, always make sure it has an American Dental Association (ADA) seal. One may prefer manual toothbrushes over others, as they feel that they have more control over their brushing. Although manual toothbrushes do not have accessories as electric toothbrushes, they still serve as an effective method to clean your teeth.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes are alternatives to manual toothbrushes that require less effort from the user. These brushes are typically battery powered and have bristles that rotate or oscillate. Electric toothbrushes increase strokes per minute, when compared to manual toothbrushes, by 8 to 25 times depending on the brush. Often, these brushes come with timers that pulse every 30 seconds, making your brushing more efficient. Electric toothbrushes have been shown to decrease plaque and gingivitis more than manual toothbrushes. A few downsides of electric toothbrushes may be their cost and lack of convenience, due to the need of batteries or electricity. Similar to an electric toothbrush, a sonic toothbrush uses power to deeply clean your teeth.

Sonic Toothbrushes

Sonic toothbrushes are a style of electric toothbrushes, but they move much faster which sets them apart from normal electric toothbrushes. A sonic toothbrush vibrates around a rate of 30,000 brushes per minute compared to an electric toothbrush at 5,000 brushes per minute. This faster movement allows you to get a deeper and cleaner brushing session. The largest downside of a sonic toothbrush is its price point. It is the most expensive option of the three brushes. No matter what brush you choose, it is important to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each session.

All of the toothbrushes discussed above are effective and efficient options when caring for your oral health. Each brush comes with pros and cons. When deciding on a toothbrush, it is important to take into consideration the factors that are important to you. Once you decide on a toothbrush, it is important to care for that brush correctly. It is important to replace your manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three to fourth months or when the bristles are starting to become worn and frayed. Overall, it is important to find a toothbrush and brushing routine that works for you.