What the science says
Shocking results of Manual vs Electric
Scientists found that people who use an electric toothbrush have healthier gums, less tooth decay and also keep their teeth for longer, compared with those who use a manual toothbrush.
-
The difference a new head makes
The study below showed that a new toothbrush was significantly more effective than a worn brush at reducing plaque scores. Patients should be encouraged to replace their toothbrush regularly before bristle wear becomes excessive.
Aditionally, a significant difference between new and worn brush heads was observed for the whole-mouth.
-
The 40 day limit
This study found a significant increase in plaque build up after 40 days using the same toothbrush head. Pretty simple.
-
Toothbrush Storage Tips
Once you’ve moved your toothbrush away from the toilet, here are a few other storage tips to keep your brush as germ-free as possible:
Keep it rinsed. Wash off your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water every time you use it.
Keep it dry. “Bacteria love a moist environment,” Harms says. Make sure your brush has a chance to dry thoroughly between brushings. Avoid using toothbrush covers, which can create a moist enclosed breeding ground for bacteria.
Keep it upright. Store your toothbrush upright in a holder, rather than lying it down.
Keep it to yourself. No matter how close you are to your sister, brother, spouse, or roommate, don’t ever use their toothbrush. Don’t even store your toothbrush side-by-side in the same cup with other people’s brushes. Whenever toothbrushes touch, they can swap germs.
-
Additional research