For many of us, brushing our teeth tends to be a tedious process. Consider trying an electronic toothbrush, not only because they are easier and more “fun” than a standard toothbrush, but also because they are very effective at improving dental health. If you are worried about gingivitis, plaque build-up, stained teeth or periodontal (gum) disease, the electronic toothbrush may be for you.

According to the Chicago Dental Society, some estimates put electronic toothbrush users at about 20 percent, possibly even 25 percent of the market. Kathy Hettrich, professional marketing manager for Bausch & Lomb, Tucker, GA stated that “We think more and more people will prefer an electric toothbrush, but we don’t see a time when manual toothbrushes will be a thing of the past. It is logical to assume that electronic toothbrushes could eventually take over half of the market because they are superior plaque removing devices.”

Perhaps the four most widely respected and most often used electronic toothbrushes are the Sonicare, Rota-Dent, Interplak and the Braun Oral-B Plaque Remover. In the 1997 Special Issue of the Journal of Clinical Dentistry, R.L. Boyd, DDS, M.Ed., stated that these four brands have sufficient published laboratory and clinical data to allow for comparison to manual toothbrushes. According to his study, these brands, with proper use, can be as or more effective than a manual toothbrush. The Wisconsin Dental Association does stress that there are other brands of electronic toothbrushes out there that may be just as effective as these mentioned brands, however, many are too new to have had significant studies done.

Mr. John Dedrick, President of West Bend Mutual Insurance, started out a nonbeliever in the benefits of the electronic toothbrush. About three years ago, at age 57, Mr. Dedrick was seeing a periodontist who stated that he would probably be a candidate for periodontal surgery. The periodontist did not recommend an electronic toothbrush. But his regular dentist, after several years of trying, was able to convince him to make the investment.

“At my next visit after trying the electronic toothbrush,” Mr. Dedrick stated, “things had changed drastically. In fact, at my last semi-annual appointment, I only had two tiny traces of plaque, something virtually unheard of in someone my age.” He was so impressed that he bought an electronic toothbrush for all four of his adult children. He also assures everyone that the toothbrush is not just for the lazy brusher. “My family took great care with our dental needs and flossing,” he insisted, “yet, the electronic toothbrush still made a dramatic difference.”

Mr. Dedrick was so impressed that he found a reasonable way for his employees to purchase an electronic toothbrush if they chose to. “You couldn’t meet a bigger fan of electronic toothbrushes,” he stated.  

While electronic toothbrushes can be beneficial to anyone, they are also particularly useful to people with manual dexterity problems, including handicapped children. Such dexterity problems can result from arthritis, stroke or other disabilities. Dr. James Springborn, President of the Wisconsin Dental Association, noted that, “Since electronic toothbrushes are so much easier to use, they are excellent for someone who has limited hand-coordination.”

Milwaukee periodontist Dr. Nancy Barton said that she has a number of patients who are unable to achieve adequate plaque control and further periodontal disease could result. “Some are unable because of physical limitations and some are unwilling to take the time to brush and floss adequately. We recommend electric toothbrushes for these patients with instructions for their proper use. For many of these patients, there is improved plaque control and with that, improved gingival health, at subsequent visits,” Dr. Barton stated.

When choosing an electronic toothbrush, the Wisconsin Dental Association suggests that you keep in mind the same guidelines you would follow when selecting a manual toothbrush. A brush with a small head and soft to medium synthetic bristles is ideal. Since there is more to an electronic toothbrush then a manual one, the WDA also suggests keeping in mind cost of replacing the head and batteries needed, which varies by model. Even the type of toothpaste you use might be a consideration, since some models suggest different types of toothpaste. However, no matter how you brush, with an electronic or manual toothbrush, the WDA always suggests that you spend at least two minutes each time.