Electric or manual: which toothbrush is better?

Both can keep your teeth clean. What matters most is how, and how long, you brush.

· 1 min read

An electric toothbrush and a bamboo toothbrush on a stone counter

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Hygiene

In short

  • Electric brushes remove a little more plaque and make timing easy.
  • A soft manual brush works just as well with good technique.
  • Two minutes, twice a day, and cleaning between teeth matter most.

It is one of the questions we hear most in the hygiene room. The honest answer is that a good technique beats any brush.

The case for electric

Electric brushes do some of the work for you. Most have a two-minute timer and a pressure sensor, which helps if you tend to rush or brush too hard. Studies show they remove slightly more plaque for most people.

The case for manual

A manual brush is cheap, light and works anywhere. Used well, twice a day for two full minutes, it cleans just as effectively. Choose soft bristles and a small head that reaches the back teeth.

What actually matters

  • Brush twice a day for two minutes
  • Angle the bristles towards the gum line
  • Replace the brush or head every three months
  • Clean between your teeth once a day

If you are not sure your technique is working, ask at your next hygiene visit. We are happy to show you on your own teeth.

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