Manual vs. Electric Toothbrush: Which One’s Right for You?

At Wholesome Smiles, we believe the best oral care starts with understanding your own needs. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we want to help you feel confident about your brushing routine—whether you're team manual or electric.

Both can keep your teeth and gums healthy if used correctly. So let’s break it down in a simple, no-nonsense way.

The Case for Manual Toothbrushes

Manual brushes have been around forever for a reason—they work. If you have good brushing technique, decent hand control, and patience to reach every nook and cranny, manual can be a great option.

💡 Who might do well with a manual brush:

• You know your technique is solid

• You don’t mind taking your time

• Your teeth are fairly straight and easy to access

That said, rushed, aggressive brushing is one of the biggest culprits I see for gum recession—especially when people are racing out the door in the morning. If that sounds like you, it may be time to rethink your brush or your habits.

✔️ Choosing a Good Manual Toothbrush

Common mistakes:

• Using a hard or medium brush (ouch!)

• Picking one that’s too big to fit around your back teeth

Better choices:

• Ultra-soft bristles to protect enamel and gums

• A small head with a narrow tip to reach tight spots (yes, even kids' brushes work well!)

• Change every 2–3 months, or after a cold or flu

🧠 Technique Tips for Manual Brushing

• Hold your brush at a 45° angle to your gums

• Use small circles or gentle short strokes

• Don’t scrub—brushing harder doesn't mean brushing better

If you already have recession, gently sweep away from the gum line with minimal pressure. No need to be rough—your gums will thank you.

Manual brushing technique

😬 Commonly Missed Areas:

• Along the curved edges of teeth

• Back of the upper molars

• Deep grooves in molars

• Inside of lower back teeth (around the gumline)

• Outside of premolars, especially near the gums

The Power of Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes are great for simplifying your routine—especially if you’re still learning technique, have limited hand movement, or just want a little help staying consistent.

At Wholesome Smiles, we focus on two main types of electric brushes: oscillating and sonic.

Electric brushing technique

Oscillating-Rotating (e.g., Oral-B)

These brushes have a small, round head that spins back and forth, sometimes with a pulsing action to help break up plaque.

Best for:

• Braces or orthodontic gear

• Moderate to heavy plaque buildup

• People who tend to brush too quickly or too hard

How to use:Hold the brush on each tooth surface, one at a time. No need to scrub or push—just let the brush do the work.

Sonic (e.g., Curaprox Hydrosonic, Philips Sonicare)

Sonic brushes vibrate at a high speed, helping clean beyond where the bristles actually touch using a fluid motion.

Best for:

• Sensitive gums and teeth

• Surface stain removal

• People with gum inflammation (but not exposed roots)

⚠️ A note on gum recession:If you have localised recession, I recommend turning off your electric toothbrush in that area and using a gentle sweeping motion away from the gumline instead. This helps prevent further irritation and damage.

Prevention tip:To avoid brushing too hard with an electric toothbrush, try holding it with just your thumb and index finger rather than a full-hand grip. This naturally lightens the pressure and protects your gums over time.

Technique Tip:Let the brush do the work—glide it slowly across your teeth and along the gumline without pressing down. Think “gentle and thorough,” not “scrub and rush.”

Quick Comparison

Need	Better Option
Strong brushing technique	Manual
Tend to rush or brush too hard	Electric
Gum recession	Electric for most areas, manual for recession spots
Braces or ortho appliances	Oscillating electric
Sensitive teeth/gums	Sonic electric + manual sweep on recession
Prefer gentle brushing	Sonic electric or ultra-soft manual

💬 A Gentle Word from Tia

I see all kinds of toothbrushes in my patients’ homes—and I always say: It’s not just the brush, it’s how you use it. Whether manual or electric, the right technique and a little care go a long way.

If you’re not sure which brush suits you best, or you’d like a one-on-one technique check, I’d love to show you how to get the most out of your toothbrush. You're always welcome to show me your brush during your appointment.

Wholesome care isn’t just about the tools—it’s about empowering you with knowledge and supporting your unique needs.

Need help choosing or want to book a hygiene visit at home? Book online for a gentle, prevention-focused clean where you’re most comfortable.