Electric toothbrushes clean teeth and gums considerably better than a manual toothbrush. According to the results of a new study.

Scientists found that people who use an electric toothbrush have healthier gums. They have little tooth decay. And they also keep their teeth for longer. This is in comparison with those who use a manual toothbrush.

There was a ground-breaking research that took 11 years to complete. It is the longest study of its kind into the effectiveness of electrical versus manual brushing. Read about it here as well.

Dr Nigel Carter, the Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, believes this study backs up what smaller studies formerly suggested.

Dr Carter said “Health professionals have been speaking about the benefits of electric toothbrushes for many years. This latest piece of evidence is one of the strongest and clearest evidence that electric toothbrushes are better for our oral health.”

Electric toothbrushes with pre-set functions that rotate in both directions and have oscillating programming are really effective at removing plaque. This helps keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay.

As the science behind the advantages of electric toothbrushes advances, the decision whether to invest in one becomes a little easier.

A recent poll by the Oral Health Foundation found that less than one in two (49%) British adults currently use an electric toothbrush.

Virtually two-in-three (63%) electric toothbrush users say more effective cleaning is their reason behind their decision. More than a third (34%) have been persuaded to buy one because of the advice of a dentist. And around one in nine (13%) have received an electric toothbrush as a gift.

For those who use a manual toothbrush, the cost of buying an electric toothbrush is often a turn off. However, Dr Carter says that electric toothbrushes are more accessible than ever before.

“As engineering advances, the cost of having an electric toothbrush becomes even more affordable.” said Dr Carter. “Battery-powered toothbrushes are available for as little as $10 while electric rechargeable ones can be had for as little as $30.

“Given certain advantages of electric toothbrushes, having one is an excellent investment and could really benefit the health of your mouth.”

A write up from the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that electric toothbrushes was instrumental in 22% less gum receding. There was also an 18% reduction in tooth decay over the 11 year period.

Dr Nigel Carter said “It’s important that whether you currently utilize an electric toothbrush or not, you should be following a good oral health routine.” That means that whether you’re using a manual or electrical toothbrush, you should be brushing for two minutes twice a day. Brushing should be with a fluoride toothpaste. Also, a good oral health routine would not be complete without the use of an interdental brush or floss once a day.

“If you follow a good oral health routine, then whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, you’ll have a healthier mouth either way .”