A whopping two thirds of Brits* now use an electric toothbrush – but are they really worth the buzz? We asked dentist Eva Castro Perea the most commonly asked questions when it comes to making the switch from a manual toothbrush to an electric one. While both types can be effective if used properly, she says advances in electric toothbrush technology mean the odds are stacking in their favour. From evidence that it reduces tooth decay to the convenience of the two-minute timer, read on for her reasons.
Are electric toothbrushes really better than manual toothbrushes?
Manual toothbrushes can absolutely keep teeth healthy when used correctly, but growing evidence suggests that electric brushes can make it easier for people to achieve a really thorough clean. In fact, one study found they led to 22 per cent less gum recession and 18 per cent less tooth decay over an 11-year period*.
‘Over the last few years, we have seen tremendous advances in oral healthcare technology,’ says Eva, who is working with Oral-B on a mission to improve the nation’s dental health. ‘Oral-B electric toothbrushes now alert you to areas in the mouth you have missed, or let you know if you are brushing too hard, or not hard enough.’
Do electric toothbrushes remove more plaque?
Here, too, they get the professionals’ thumbs-up. ‘Electric toothbrushes, especially those with oscillating heads, are more effective at removing plaque than a manual brush,’ says Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation.
In fact, Oral-B’s clinical testing of its iO electrical toothbrush range found it removed twice as much plaque versus a manual toothbrush, thanks to the gentle bristles that both rotate and vibrate for a deeper clean, even in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. This in turn can help prevent cavities – something that’s especially worth bearing in mind when it comes to children’s dental health. Further research showed those who use a round power toothbrush have a 40 per cent better chance of being cavity-free†, which sounds like good odds to us.
What if I have sensitive teeth?
If your memories of electric toothbrushes hark back to noisy, rough early models then be assured, technology has moved on a lot since then.
‘The Oral-B iO series is designed with gentleness in mind,’ notes Eva. ‘For an even gentler brushing experience, pairing your toothbrush with gentle care brush heads can help protect your gums while adapting to your unique brushing needs.’
If sensitivity is an issue, it's worth speaking to your dentist about the cause, as well as choosing products designed for sensitive teeth. Oral-B’s Pro 3D White Clinical Enamel Strength & Whitening toothpaste, for example, helps remove stains at the same time for double the benefits.
Which toothbrushes do dentists recommend?
Dentists tend to recommend toothbrushes that make good brushing habits easier, so look for features such as timers, pressure sensors and oscillating brush heads, all of which can help improve technique, remove plaque more effectively and help protect your gum health.
‘When I’m recommending an electric toothbrush to patients, I’m looking for a brush that does more than just clean – it should actively guide you towards better brushing habits,’ says Eva. ‘The Oral-B iO ticks every box. It has pressure sensor technology, a two-minute timer, a dentist-inspired round brush head that surrounds each tooth individually, and it’s clinically proven to remove twice as much plaque as a manual toothbrush.
‘But what sets it apart for me is that it brings all those things together in one brush – and it’s backed by the clinical evidence to prove it works.’
Small wonder then that it’s the number one brand recommended by dentists worldwide.
Are they suitable for children as well?
Yes again – electric toothbrushes are highly recommended for children as they help remove plaque more effectively than little hands can manage with a manual toothbrush, and often make brushing time more fun. Many parents find interactive features, music and character designs can help motivate reluctant brushers.
Oral-B iO Kids Marvel Spiderman Electric Toothbrush
Oral-B iO Kids Marvel Spiderman Electric Toothbrush
Oral-B has ramped up the fun factor with its latest Oral-B iO Kids electric toothbrush. Suitable for children aged 6+, it’s been designed by dentists to be gentle on kids’ gums and wobbly teeth, and comes with features such as a two-minute musical timer and three adjustable speeds: gentle, ultra-gentle and daily clean. It also uses Oral-B’s pioneering iO technology, which delivers a gentler, more effective clean** thanks to its unique brush head that oscillates, rotates and pulsates with micro-vibrations.
Are they worth the extra cost?
Traditionally electric toothbrushes have felt a bit of a luxury due to their high price point, but today’s options are much more reasonable, making them a more affordable upgrade to your routine (which could save you costly dental bills further down the line). The Oral-B iO range, for example, has options for every brushing style and a variety of price points, from streamlined models like the iO2 to premium choices like the iO10. That feels like something to smile about.
Find out more and make the switch with Oral-B
*Oral Health Foundation (2020) ‘National Smile Month Survey 2020’, April 2020, UK, Sample 2,002
**vs a regular manual toothbrush
† Davidovich et al., Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(22), 8595
