Every twenty-four hours, we’re expected to dedicate four whole minutes of our lives to brushing our precious teeth. Our dentists truly don’t ask for much, just that we take care of our pearly whites morning and night for two minutes at a time.
For some reason, half of the human population finds this to be an unbearably burdensome and yawn-inducing task, no matter how used to the daily ablution we’ve grown to become. Yet once you master the proper technique, you’ll be surprised by just how lovely a good ‘ole scrub of your Hampstead Heath can be.
We spoke to Dr Surina Sehgal, otherwise known as The Foodie Dentist for some expert insight into the world of manual toothbrushes.
What are the benefits of using manual toothbrushes?
“There are several benefits of using a manual toothbrush over an electric one.
- Affordability: Manual toothbrushes are generally more affordable compared to electric toothbrushes. This makes them accessible to a wide range of people.
- Availability: They are widely available in most stores and come in a variety of types and designs.
- Control: Manual toothbrushes allow users to have complete control over the pressure and speed of brushing, which can be beneficial for individuals with sensitive gums or teeth.
- No need for batteries/charging: Manual toothbrushes do not require electricity or batteries, making them convenient and easy to use anywhere.
- Easy to use: They are straightforward to use, making them ideal for individuals who might find electric toothbrushes complicated.”
How effective is a manual toothbrush?
“Manual toothbrushes can be very effective in maintaining oral hygiene when used correctly. Studies show that they are effective at removing plaque and preventing gum disease (gingivitis) just as well as electric toothbrushes. The key factors influencing their effectiveness include the brushing technique, duration of brushing, and consistency in brushing twice daily.”
What is the proper technique for using a manual toothbrush?
- “Choose the Right Toothbrush: Select a toothbrush with soft-medium bristles and a small to medium-sized head to ensure it can reach all areas of your mouth.
- Angle the Brush Correctly: Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
- Use Gentle Circular Motions: Use small, gentle circular motions rather than vigorous back-and-forth strokes to avoid over-scrubbing and potentially damaging the gums and enamel.
- Brush All Surfaces: Ensure you brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and chewing surfaces of all your teeth.
- Brush for Two Minutes: Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth, ensuring you divide the time equally among all quadrants of your mouth.
- Don’t Forget the Tongue: Brush your tongue gently to remove bacteria and freshen your breath using a separate manual toothbrush or tongue cleaner.”
What are the best toothbrushes on the market?
“There are so many manual toothbrushes on the market, but here are my personal favourites!
- Oral-B Pro-Health All-In-One Toothbrush: Known for its multi-level bristles and ergonomic handle, so it is easy to hold.
- Colgate 360 Enamel Health Toothbrush: Features polishing cups and bristles designed to be gentle on enamel while effectively cleaning teeth.
- Curaprox CS 5460 Ultra Soft Toothbrush: Offers ultra-soft bristles that are effective yet gentle, reducing the risk of gum damage.”
How long does a manual toothbrush last?
“I would recommend replacing your manual toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn. A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning your teeth and can harbour harmful bacteria. Additionally, it’s advisable to replace your toothbrush after recovering from a cold/flu/any illness to prevent reinfection.
“Maintaining proper oral hygiene with a manual toothbrush involves choosing the right one, employing proper brushing techniques, and replacing it regularly. While manual toothbrushes can be as effective as electric ones, the key lies in their proper use!”
We’ve curated a selection of the best manual toothbrushes on the market to keep those pearly whites shining.
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Oral-B Pro-Health All-In-One Toothbrush
Oral-B’s Pro-Health manual toothbrush is truly an all-in-one piece of kit. It delivers seven benefits for brilliant oral hygiene including helping to remove hard-to-reach plaque thanks to extra-long bristles, cleaning the gumline, improving gum health, polishing surface stains, removing odour-causing germs, massaging gums and being gentle on the entire oral environment. What’s more, those blue bristles gently fade in colour to indicate when it's time to replace your trusty brush.
Buy now £4.00, Boots
Colgate 360 Enamel Health Toothbrush
This brilliant toothbrush from Colgate has a handle made from 40 per cent recycled plastic and extra soft bristles. The gentle bristles reduce wear while polishing cups minimise enamel erosion, making this a particularly good manual option for those with sensitive or damaged teeth. It’s also equipped with an advanced cheek and tongue cleaner for full 360 oral care.
Buy now £4.70, Tesco
Curaprox CS 5460 Ultra Soft Toothbrush
Sleek, stylish and dentist-approved, the Curaprox 5460 is an ultra-soft toothbrush which is perfect for those with sensitive teeth and gums. Each brush has a whopping 5,460 bristles delicately placed into the compact brush head for a powerful yet gentle brushing and an entirely premium experience.
Buy now £5.30, Boots
Marvis Toothbrush
For Italian craftsmanship at an affordable price, look no further than the iconic toothbrushes by Marcis. This chic, all-black option comes with a toothbrush case for all your travelling needs. The medium bristles work to break up plaque and tartar, as well as massage the gums, without causing damage or irritation. Pair with Marvis toothpaste for the ultimate luxury brushing experience.
Buy now £5.00, Amazon
Euthymol Classic Toothbrush
Euthymol’s original toothbrush is known for its extra-long brush head. While this may not be suitable for all users, the extended surface covers four to five teeth with each stroke for more expansive cleaning. The specially designed curved and bevelled edge of the original toothbrush has been designed to glide through the mouth and across the teeth with the utmost ease.
Buy now £4.19, Amazon
Piuma Feather Brush + Smart Base
We too were surprised to learn that the Piuma Feather Brush + Smart Base was, in fact, a manual brushing tool. Made with delicate micro-bristles which reach the deepest corners of the mouth, the Piuma Feather Brush is incredibly flexible, nimble and durable.
The real star of the show, however, is the smart base – which offers an integrated calendar that reminds you to change your toothbrush every three months. These replacements can be purchased via Piuma as refills, and each toothbrush is made from 100 per cent recycled materials.
Buy now £18.36, Amazon
Acca Kappa Toothbrush
For those who value functionality as much as aesthetics, the Acca Kappa toothbrush is your new bathroom hero. Available in nylon and white in either medium or soft bristles, Acca Kappa represents a commitment to the old-world standard of quality, luxury and simplicity. Lovers of vintage style should incorporate its charm right down to their daily-use accoutrements.
Buy now £23.00, Amazon
Wild & Stone | Organic Bamboo Toothbrush
Better for the environment and great for teeth, bamboo toothbrushes are a good-looking and eco-conscious option for those looking to upgrade their manual toothbrush game. These toothbrushes from Wild & Stone have firm bristles, but they’re also available in medium.
Since dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months, we’re fans of the fact that Wild & Stone offers a four-pack of brushes for under £10. When you’re done, simply pull out the bristles with pliers and compost the handle at home.
Buy now £7.19, Amazon
Wisdom Re:new Clean Toothbrush Medium Twin Pack
For those who struggle with nylon bristles, Wisdom Re:new brushes are made with 100 per cent plant-based filaments and a recycled handle. Offering a deep yet gentle clean while offering supreme sustainability, you simply can’t go wrong. Plus, the flexible neck helps to prevent gums from unnecessary impact.
Buy now £1.80, Boots
