Why You Might Choose An Electric Toothbrush
Though it may not seem like it, the people of the past have been brushing their teeth for a very long time! The first toothbrush was thought to be developed nearly 5000 years ago, though this was little more than a chewed up twig. The toothbrush has evolved a lot since then, with the first bristle based toothbrush popping up in China around 1200-1300 years ago. In the modern day there are a plethora of options for brushing your teeth, but not all are made equal. In a recent 11 year study it was found that those who use an electric toothbrush have healthier gums, less tooth decay and also keep their teeth for longer, compared with those who use a manual toothbrush. In today’s blog post we’ll cover some of the reasons you might want to consider switching to an electric toothbrush!
More Effective Cleaning
Electric toothbrushes tend to be better at removing plaque and reducing gum decay. One study has shown that after switching, users on average had 21% less plaque on their teeth and a reduction in gingivitis. This holds especially true for oscillating electric toothbrushes (which have brush heads that rotate in one direction then the other.)
Helpful For Those With Limited Mobility
Since the electric toothbrush assists brushing so well there is less need for intense arm movement. Anyone with conditions such as carpal tunnel, arthritis, or any other condition that may limit movement in the hands and arms could see significant benefit from using an electric toothbrush.
Great for Dental Appliances
Those with braces, retainers, or other dental work that can create hard to reach spaces may find an electric toothbrush particularly helpful. If you are not struggling to clean your appliance then it may not make a large difference, but for those with that one spot they always struggle to get it can make a world of difference!
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Overall, it is far more important to brush your teeth consistently and well than what brush you choose to do it with. With diligence and patience you can generally get a similar level of plaque removal with a traditional brush as with an electric brush. However, for those who want an easier, faster, and more consistent brushing experience you may want to consider an electric toothbrush!
