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Electric toothbrush: Better than a regular toothbrush?

Is an electric toothbrush better than a regular toothbrush?

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Mayo Clinic dental care specialist Alan Carr, D.M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

It's possible to brush your teeth effectively with a manual toothbrush. But an electric toothbrush can be a great alternative to a manual toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to brush well. The bristle movement of an electric toothbrush might even help you remove more plaque from your teeth and improve your gum health. If you choose to invest in an electric toothbrush, look for one that's comfortable to hold and easy to use. A rotating-oscillating head is best. Other specific features, such as adjustable power levels, timers and rechargeable batteries, are up to you. What's most important is regular brushing, whether you choose a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush, and daily flossing.

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Nov 21, 2008