What to Know When Buying an Electric Toothbrush

By Andrew Hickey on Feb 21, 2024 @ 01:02 PM

For optimal oral health, you need to brush your teeth twice a day, along with flossing and using mouthwash. We all know this. However, doing it can be easier said than done. The good news is using an electric toothbrush can help in a big way. Plus, you can do it in about two minutes. With that said, not all electric toothbrushes are created equal. There are different considerations to make before you invest in one. That's why we're here to review what you should know when buying an electric toothbrush.

Key Takeaways:

There are two types of electric toothbrushes: oscillating and sonic.
The price of an electric toothbrush does not necessarily reflect its quality.
Battery life, brushing modes, toothpaste, and replacement heads are important considerations when choosing an electric toothbrush.
Flossing and using mouthwash are also important for optimal oral health.
Your dentist can provide tailored treatment plans and answer any questions you may have about your oral health.

AdobeStock_361794815 Oscillating Toothbrush vs. Sonic Toothbrush

There is a divide between electric toothbrushes that you may not know about. Should you pick an oscillating toothbrush or a sonic toothbrush?

An oscillating toothbrush has a round head that rotates and allows you to brush quickly and effectively. Meanwhile, a sonic toothbrush has a long brush head and uses vibrating technology. This makes the brush head move at even faster speeds.

Dental professionals and experts have different opinions. Some studies state that oscillating brushes produce "substantial, statistically superior reductions in plaque and gingivitis." Meanwhile, others believe that sonic brushes clean the teeth more effectively. Either way, electric toothbrushes are a powerful defense for protecting your oral health.

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Does High Cost Mean Better Quality?

Say you find a toothbrush that looks sleek, has a whole range of fancy settings, and has a higher price tag. You may think you have a winner. The most expensive toothbrush in the world is the $6,500 Heritage Toothbrush. It comes with a solid gold or black rhodium handle, and each bristle is hand-crafted. Luckily for your wallet and your teeth, the best toothbrush doesn't have to be the most expensive.

You can get an electric toothbrush for as low as $20 (or less) and still get reliable results. Buying two electric toothbrushes can cost less, and you can find a great deal. So be sure to research, compare options, and find out what suits you.

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Battery Life and Brushing Modes

An electric toothbrush with low battery life and is difficult to charge can leave you feeling flat. This is especially true if you travel a lot. So, reviewing the battery life and charging capabilities is essential when choosing an electric toothbrush.

It is also worth looking for an electric toothbrush with a timer and a pressure sensor. This will help you get the most out of your toothbrush and brushing routine. The timer will keep you on track to brush for two minutes, as the American Dental Association recommends. A toothbrush with a pressure sensor can help you avoid damaging your teeth while brushing. "Over-brushing" can lead to dental abrasion, tooth sensitivity, and gum recession.

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Toothpaste and Replacement Heads

An electric toothbrush is an investment in your oral health. To make sure you're using your toothbrush correctly, you will want to follow the recommendations. Let's start with the toothpaste. Depending on your oral health needs, there are different types of toothpaste. You may have sensitive teeth or need protection for cavities or damaged gums.

Then there are replacement heads. Since the bristles move quickly and work hard, it is suggested that you replace the toothbrush head every three months. Consider these costs and research them as you look for your electric toothbrush.

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Other Considerations

You can think of the electric toothbrush as one of your best tools for tackling your oral health needs. However, it's only part of the equation.

Brushing doesn't get between the teeth, which is where flossing comes in. It allows you to reach those hard-to-reach areas to remove food particles and plaque build-up. Floss once daily and ensure you get between each tooth, which can take a few minutes.

For a total mouth clean, also keep some mouthwash handy. It can fight bacteria and food particles that your toothbrush and floss can't get. Typically, it can be used twice a day after brushing and flossing; however, refer to the label on the bottle.

Last but not least, your dentist is the best line of defense for all your oral health concerns. They can provide a tailored treatment plan based on your needs and answer any questions about brushing flossing mouthwash, or anything else to do with your teeth and mouth.

That was a lot! We hope this article will help you make the most informed choices for your dental care. For even more tips, get your free copy of our guide comparing manual and electric toothbrushes.