Which Style of Toothbrush Works Best?

In the dental care section of any drug store, there is a plethora of toothbrush options, ranging from traditional toothbrushes to high-tech electric ones. With such a wide and varied selection, consumers are left wondering which one works best.

THREE STYLES OF TOOTHBRUSHES

Although the toothbrush aisle is flooded with different toothbrush models, there are actually only three basic styles of toothbrushes:

• Manual Toothbrush: This is the traditional style of toothbrush with a plastic handle that doesn't require a power source.
• Battery-Operated Toothbrush: Typically, battery-operated toothbrushes are powered by a AA battery. They are designed much like a manual brush, but the bristle head vibrates to offer better cleaning action.
• Electric Toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes sit on charging bases that plug into the wall. Some models offer high-tech features and advanced cleaning technology.

Within each of these styles of toothbrushes, there are a wide variety of models available that range in price.

THE MOST EFFECTIVE STYLE OF TOOTHBRUSH

If a person is conscientious about brushing and flossing thoroughly, a manual toothbrush usually works fine. As long as you reach the surfaces of every tooth and brush long enough.

Manual toothbrushes get about 300 strokes per minute, while power toothbrushes result in 3,000 to 31,000 strokes per minute. The increased strokes of power toothbrushes can certainly benefit people who don't take the time to brush long enough.

Which style of toothbrush works best? Studies show that high-tech electric toothbrush models that utilize sonic technology result in the least amount of plaque and the fewest cases of gingivitis. Sonicare toothbrushes rotate at 31,000 strokes per minute, so this extreme amount of vibration creates enough energy to clean those hard-to-reach areas that a regular bristle head doesn't touch. Resulting in 5x more plaque removal than with a manual toothbrush.

The dentist office gives each patient a manual toothbrush to take home because they do work. However, the cleaning power of Sonicare toothbrushes can help fill in the gaps for people who tend to get slack when it comes to brushing their teeth. Our Mentor, Ohio dental office recommends Sonicare toothbrushes and now caries some versions in the office. Ask your Dentist or Hygienist if you could benefit from Sonicare technology!