Electric toothbrushes: are they really worth it?

16 / 10 / 2026

Electric toothbrushes: are they really worth it?

Walk down any toothbrush aisle and you will see electric brushes ranging from under £20 to well over £200. Are they really better than a manual brush, and do you need all the fancy features? Here is our friendly, practical take.

What the evidence says

Research, including large independent reviews, has found that powered toothbrushes, particularly those with small round heads that rotate and oscillate, remove more plaque and reduce gum inflammation more than manual brushing over time. The difference is not huge, but over months and years it adds up.

That said, a manual toothbrush used well, twice a day for two minutes, is still very effective. The best toothbrush is the one you use properly.

Who benefits most from an electric brush?

• People who brush too hard: Many electric brushes have pressure sensors that warn you.
• People who rush: Built-in timers help you brush for the full two minutes.
• Children: Many kids find electric brushes more fun, and they do more of the work.
• People with braces or aligners: Electric brushes can make it easier to clean around brackets and attachments.
• People with limited dexterity: Including those with arthritis or other conditions affecting the hands.
• People prone to gum problems: Better plaque removal can help keep gums healthier.

Do you need an expensive model?

Not usually. The most important features are a two-minute timer and a pressure sensor. App connectivity, multiple modes and fancy travel cases are nice to have, but they do not clean your teeth any better. A mid-range brush from a reputable brand is a great choice for most people.

What an electric brush cannot do

No toothbrush, however advanced, cleans properly between your teeth. That is where most gum disease and a lot of decay start. Cleaning between your teeth every day with interdental brushes or floss is just as important as brushing.

Top tips for brushing

• Brush twice a day for two minutes, including the last thing at night.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste.
• Spit, don’t rinse, so the fluoride keeps working.
• Guide the brush slowly from tooth to tooth; there is no need to scrub.
• Replace your brush head every three months, or sooner if the bristles splay.

Ask us for advice

Our hygienists are always happy to recommend the right brush and interdental cleaning products for your mouth, and show you how to use them. Just ask at your next appointment, or call us on 01494 527 971.