Both manual and electric toothbrushes are equally effective if you brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes, twice a day. With a manual toothbrush, you have control on frequency and pressure, while with an electric toothbrush, you lack the tactile sensation and it can be aggressive unless it has a sensor. If you have good oral hygiene habits using your manual toothbrush and have no gingivitis or any form of periodontal disease, then a manual toothbrush is all you need. An electric toothbrush is recommended if you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, or have arthritis or any hand movement disorder.

Whichever toothbrush you decide to use, excessive brushing with a manual or an electric toothbrush has its risks. It can abrade tooth structure, recede gingival tissue, and cause teeth to become hypersensitive to hot and/or cold.

Thin and limited gingiva tissue biotype has more risk of gum recession especially when using an electric toothbrush than a thick gingival biotype.

For more info and advice on brushing techniques and which brush is better for you, visit your Bellevue, WA dentist or contact us @cascadiadentalspecialisits.com