So, your toothbrush bristles are starting to look frayed. It’s time to buy a new one, and you’re wondering whether to stick with a regular toothbrush or splurge on an electric one. Is there a difference?

Each type has its pros and cons. The bottom line is that both can be equally effective at removing plaque and preventing tooth decay if used correctly and kept in good condition. While it comes down to personal taste, here are some aspects to consider.

Benefits of Electric Toothbrushes

• Electric toothbrushes can be easier for people who have trouble physically moving their brush around in their mouth, especially elderly people with arthritis or children with limited hand coordination. Electric toothbrushes may also be more appealing for children, which means less arguing and cleaner teeth!
• Since electric toothbrushes constantly rotate and clean at a high speed while being moved over your teeth, it may clean them more intensely – with minimal effort. While most dentists will say that both brushes can be equally effective, international research organization Cochrane found that electric toothbrushes reduce dental plaque 21% more and gingivitis 11% more than regular toothbrushes after three months of use.
• Some electric toothbrushes feature built-in sensors, which alert you if you accidentally press too hard your gums, something many people are prone to do.

Benefits of Regular Toothbrushes

• Some people, especially kids, don't like the vibrations of electric toothbrushes.
• Unlike electric toothbrushes, regular ones come in a larger variety of options, including small, medium or large heads with hard, medium or soft bristles. (Don’t forget that soft bristles are gentler on the gums and small heads provide better access to back teeth.)
• Not only are regular toothbrushes smaller and lighter than electric toothbrushes, making them easier to maneuver, they’re also significantly cheaper.