The 5 Oral Health Benefits of Using an Electric Toothbrush

1. Improved plaque removal

Electric toothbrushes are highly beneficial in aiding the removal of plaque. Unlike manual toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes are designed to oscillate or rotate at a much higher speed, which helps in more effectively removing plaque from the teeth.[¹] This can be especially beneficial for those who have difficulty removing plaque with manual brushes or those prone to gum disease.

2. Reduced gum inflammation

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition in which the gums become inflamed, swollen and bleed easily. It is caused by plaque build-up, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. Plaque that is not removed can lead to inflammation and eventually cause damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bones. Without adequate care, one may need to see a dental surgery specialist for treatment.

As mentioned previously, electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque than manual toothbrushes due to their high-speed brushing motion. This results in less plaque accumulation and reduced gum inflammation.[²] Additionally, the rapid motion of the brush also serves to massage the gums and improve circulation, further reducing inflammation.

3. Better access to hard-to-reach areas

Electric toothbrushes are designed with smaller and more compact brush heads, allowing them to reach areas that are difficult to access with a manual toothbrush. These areas can include the back molars, the gum line, and between the teeth, where plaque can build up and cause cavities.

The smaller brush head of an electric toothbrush can reach these hard-to-reach spaces and clean them effectively.[³] This helps to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay, as well as improve breath and overall oral health.

4. Timer function

Maintaining effective oral hygiene requires brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day. However, some people may have trouble brushing for the full two minutes, either because they lose track of time or because they get bored while brushing.

This is where the timer function on many electric toothbrushes can be helpful. The timer on an electric toothbrush helps to ensure that you brush for the recommended two minutes by automatically stopping the brush after the specified time. This makes it easier for people to form good oral hygiene practices and ensure that they are brushing their teeth thoroughly and effectively.

5. Customisable settings

Customising the settings on your electric toothbrush can be the difference between an average brushing experience and one that is tailored to your needs and preferences. With different modes like sensitive, deep cleaning and gum care, you can choose the setting that best suits your oral health requirements.

For instance, the sensitive mode is ideal for those with sensitive teeth or gums, as it uses a gentler brushing motion and lower vibration to ensure comfort. Alternatively, the deep cleaning mode provides a more thorough clean with a stronger brushing motion and higher vibration, removing plaque and debris more effectively.