Deciding Between an Electric and a Regular Toothbrush

 Mareshah Logan  Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Have you ever wondered whether the type of toothbrush you use can have an effect on how clean your teeth get? While factors such as how you brush and how long you brush tend to be more important, the type of toothbrush you use can certainly make a different as well. At the Edmonton dental clinic of Azarko Dental Group, our dentists often help patients decide between regular and electric toothbrushes. Here are some factors that you should consider when making your choice.

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Which Type of Toothbrush is More Effective?

Thanks to significant advancements in technology and design over the last several years, electric toothbrushes are today highly optimized for removing plaque bacteria and food particles from the surfaces of the teeth and gums. When compared to a regular toothbrush, an electric toothbrush is able to clear more plaque with the same amount of work and effort, particularly in difficult-to-reach areas. Many people also find electric toothbrushes to be easier to use, especially children and people who suffer from arthritis.

While technique is always important when you are brushing your teeth, electric toothbrushes are more forgiving and will do a good job even when perfect technique is not used. Regular toothbrushes, on the other hand, need to be held at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and used in a gentle circular motion. Some people have a very difficult time getting the correct technique down and end up either not brushing thoroughly enough or brushing too hard and damaging their tooth enamel.

Additional Factors to Consider

While an electric toothbrush probably looks like the best choice to you now, there are a few other factors you should consider before making the switch. One of the main downsides of electric toothbrushes is that they do periodically require charging or new batteries. They are also much bulkier than regular toothbrushes, making it more difficult to travel with them. If any of these factors are going to negatively impact your brushing habits, then a regular toothbrush may be a better option for you.

With the right technique, however, a regular toothbrush can certainly keep your teeth clean and healthy. If you've always practice good brushing habits, if you have the correct brushing technique down, and if your Edmonton dentist has never pointed out significant problems with your teeth and gums, then you can keep doing exactly what you have been doing.

Let Your Edmonton Dentist Help You Decide

If you really want to figure out which type of toothbrush is better for you, then don't hesitate to ask an Edmonton dentist. At an Azarko Dental Group clinic, we can discuss your brushing habits, examine the health of your teeth and gums, and help you come to an informed decision. For all of your dental hygiene questions and concerns, just book an appointment at our Edmonton dental clinic today.

Azarko West


14938 Stony Plain Rd.

Edmonton, AB T5P 3X8