Dental Trends of the Future: Leaving the Past Behind

Tools for brushing your teeth dates back to 3500-3000 BC with the use of a twig called a tooth-stick. Technology advanced when  Du Pont invented nylon, leading to the first nylon brush in 1938. The electric brush in the United States was introduced in 1960.

Since the electric toothbrush was invented, there has always been a pretty heated debate regarding whether electric or manual is the better option. The easiest way to decide is to look at a broken down comparison of the two.

Requirements of Both Toothbrushes

Both brushes require brushing with a 45-degree angle. You should also brush for at least two minutes to ensure your teeth are clean. You need to focus on each tooth, including the biting surfaces, the inside, and the outside to prevent the risk of plaque buildup. While choosing electric or manual is largely a personal choice, it helps to be aware of the pros and cons.

Exploring the Benefits of Manual Brushing

• Inexpensive: Manual brushes are less expensive versus electric choices.
• Travel Anywhere: You don't have to worry about charging a battery. It is ready to use no matter where you are.

Exploring the Downsides to Manual Brushing

The only real downside to a manual toothbrush is the lack of a timer. Electric toothbrushes can come equipped with a timer to automatically shut the brush off after you've brushed for a predetermined amount of time. An easy solution to this downside is to have a timer in your bathroom you can set while you are manually brushing your teeth.

Exploring the Benefits of Electric Brushing

• Better Results: The electric unit removes more plaque and gingivitis. Some brushes also have a special massage unit for your gums.
• Less Work: All you have to do is maintain the right angle and let the brush do its work.
• Children Enjoy Them: Many children believe an electric brush is a toy. Since it tickles their teeth, it is fun until the timer shuts off letting them know the game is over.

Exploring the Downsides to Electric Brushing

The biggest downside to an electric toothbrush is the price. A battery-operated toothbrush for an adult with one or two non-rechargeable AA batteries ranges from $5 to $25 in price. A child's electric toothbrush sells for roughly $13.  A rechargeable toothbrush can range from $20 to $200. The prices vary based on the brand and quality. If you opt for battery-operated toothbrushes, you also have to factory in the cost of batteries as well.

With this pros and cons list, you should have no trouble choosing the right toothbrush for your needs. Talk to a dentist, like Associated Dental Center, LLC, for more help.