On average, Americans only spend 45 seconds brushing their teeth every day. It is recommended by dental health professionals to brush for about two minutes.
Using electric toothbrushes can help solve this problem as well as many others that Americans encounter while brushing their teeth.
In this guide, we will answer the question: are electric toothbrushes worth it? We’ll help you consider all types of toothbrushes before you invest in one.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about electric toothbrushes and their worth.
Types of Toothbrushes
There are five main types of toothbrushes. They are manual, rotary, sonic, ionic, and ultrasonic. Many of those names sound powerful, and they are.
Manual toothbrushes are your average Joe of toothbrushes. Everyone has used them, and you see them everywhere. They have no power. They are simple sticks with bristles. Yet, they do get the job done most of the time.
The rotary toothbrush is an electric toothbrush. The head of the toothbrush rotates at more than 3,000 strokes per minute. Some rotate in a full circle over and over again. Others go 360 degrees one way and back the other.
Sonic toothbrushes are another electric toothbrush that quickly goes side-to-side. It’s faster than the rotary brush at about 30,000 brush strokes a minute.
Ultrasonic toothbrushes are even better. Similar to the sonic toothbrush, it uses side-to-side motions to brush your teeth. Yet, it goes even faster and vibrates which dislodges plaque to get your teeth super clean.
Ionic toothbrushes use the same vibration method that ultrasonic brushes do. This toothbrush vibrates at high speeds to attract plaque to it. As the plaque is attracted it dislodges and is spit out with your toothpaste.
Each type of toothbrush has its perks. It is up to you, your research, and your hygienist to find the right one for your teeth.
Electric Toothbrushes Vs the Manual Toothbrush
When learning about toothbrushes you’ll realize that they boil down to two main types. They are electric toothbrushes and manual toothbrushes.
Knowing the difference between the two will help you answer the question: are electric toothbrushes worth it?
Electric Toothbrush Pros
All-electric toothbrush types make it easier to brush your teeth. People who use electric toothbrushes tend to have less plaque because of the toothbrush’s ability to vibrate it off.
They also do a quicker job of brushing, and many have built-in timers, so you know that you are brushing your teeth long enough. If you struggle with brushing at night, electric toothbrushes make it easier and quicker to do.
Electric Toothbrush Cons
Electric toothbrushes are often expensive. The price tag for these toothbrushes turns many people off because you can find manual toothbrushes for cheap or even free.
Additionally, you have to replace the toothbrush’s heads regularly. These heads don’t come cheap either. An electric toothbrush is an investment.
One thing that also worries some is that they can wear out your enamel. The high power of the toothbrush not only removes plaque, but enamel too. You have to be careful when using an electric toothbrush, so you don’t overdo it.
Manual Toothbrush Pros
Manual toothbrushes have their fair share of pros too. For one, they are easier to pack and require no charging. You can bring these anywhere and use them anywhere without a second thought.
As stated before, they are also dirt cheap. You probably get these from your dentist for free during your regular visits. They also come in multipacks for less than your daily cup of coffee.
Manual Toothbrush Cons
When you use a manual toothbrush, you have to put in quite a bit of effort to do a good job brushing. Your dental health may suffer if you don’t get every tooth and inch of your gums.
You have to stay on top of your brushing and make sure you are doing a good job even when you are dead tired in the morning. If you struggle with this, you may consider switching to an electric toothbrush.
Who Benefits From Electric Toothbrushes?
Many different types of people benefit from electric toothbrushes. Children, for example, have better brushing habits with electric toothbrushes. They make it fun, and some types even use music to time the activity.
People with braces enjoy electric toothbrushes. The vibrations help dislodge plaque and leftover food stuck behind the metal components.
Also, people who struggle with hand-eye coordination do better with these toothbrushes. The movement and vibrations can do most of the work while they move the brush from tooth to tooth.
How Much Do Electric Toothbrushes Cost?
Electric toothbrushes’ prices vary depending on the model you decide to get. On average they are three to five times the price of a manual toothbrush. They range from $30 to $300 if you get a fancy one.
Yet, you should keep in mind that gum disease and cavity fillings are more expensive. If you can invest in an electric toothbrush to save on dental procedures, you will save in the long run.
Are Electric Toothbrushes Worth It?
If you’re still asking: “Are electric toothbrushes worth it?” the answer is probably! Consider your brushing habits and how you feel about brushing your teeth.
Trying electric toothbrushes may save you a ton of time and money at your dentist’s office. If you’re still unsure whether you need to invest in an electric toothbrush, you should talk to us at Dentistry Thirty-Two.
Our dedicated staff at Dentistry Thirty-Two are ready to answer any of your questions about your brushing your teeth. Finding out what toothbrush is best for your teeth is a phone call away. Contact us today to book a visit.