The Wirecutter Show
Should You Switch to an Electric Toothbrush?
Episode Summary
Gum hygiene can affect your overall health. Our expert tells us the most important things to know about oral health, and how to choose the best brush for you.
Episode Notes
Oral health is about more than just a pretty smile; it's also connected to your overall health and well-being.
In this episode, senior staff writer and toothbrush fanatic Nancy Redd explains how to brush properly, whether a manual or electric toothbrush is right for you, and how to find the best toothbrush for your family, no matter the budget. She shares surprising tips about oral hygiene and how to get kids excited about taking care of their teeth.
And don’t forget to check out our video guide on how to properly brush your teeth.
This episode covers:
- Why oral hygiene is so important: Brushing for 2 minutes is key to a healthy mouth. Poor oral hygiene can affect your overall health.
- Electric vs. manual: A manual toothbrush is just as effective as an electric one if you brush for a full two minutes. The benefit of an electric toothbrush is its built-in timer, which ensures you brush long enough.
- Two types of electric toothbrushes: The top-rated Oral-B and Sonicare models differ in how they clean. Oral-B toothbrushes use an oscillating motion (a spinning, round head), while Sonicare models use a vibrating motion (a brush-shaped head that moves back and forth). If one is uncomfortable, try the other.
- Gentle toothbrushes: For a more gentle clean, consider a kid's electric toothbrush. They have a softer, smaller head and a milder vibration that's more comfortable for sensitive teeth and gums.
- Water flossers: If you have trouble flossing, a water flosser can be a great alternative. It uses a pressurized stream of water to blast away gunk from your teeth.
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