What type of toothbrush is best for my teeth? Electric or manual?

Patients often say to us dental experts, “Excuse me doctor, which toothbrush is more effective, manual or electric?”
Despite the fact that people who come to our dental clinic formulate this question as an eternal dilemma, the truth is that the answer is very simple: both methods are equally effective, as long as they are put to good use. Brushing our teeth requires time and dedication; it does not consist only of rinsing the mouth with toothpaste and moving the toothbrush.
While it is true that in recent years electric toothbrushes have gained fame and reputation among the population, especially thanks to the large amount of advertising that appears every day on billboards and television commercials, among others. However, despite the abundant promotion of electric toothbrushes, manual toothbrushes are still just as effective when used properly.

How to brush your teeth

Patients should know that good brushing consists of moving the brush head and thoroughly cleaning all the ends of the teeth and molars. Brushing the teeth well is not synonymous with doing it with force, because we understand that this is the way to remove more dirt, but quite the opposite. In this way, the only thing we achieve is to damage the gums, cause pain and discomfort in the teeth and even cause bleeding that translates into the appearance of other diseases of the mouth.
To brush the teeth correctly, it is necessary to do it gently, with rotating movements if it is done manually or through vibrations if we choose to use an electric toothbrush. Both options are totally valid and equally good as long as they are done well. What we need to avoid is brushing our teeth quickly and aggressively.