Level Up Your Toothbrush Game

Because your toothbrush should work as hard as you do!

Author

Dr. Foxy
April 03, 2025

NOTES FROM THE BATHROOM SINK

In this edition of Smile Couture, I’m diving into something we all (hopefully) do twice a day—but may not be doing as effectively as we think: brushing our teeth.

You probably already know that brushing is essential for healthy teeth and gums. But when it comes to choosing the right toothbrush, the options can get overwhelming. Manual or electric? Sonic or oscillating? Does it even matter?

Let’s break down what the research says—minus the dental jargon—and have a little fun while we’re at it!

LET’S BREAK IT DOWN

ELECTRIC VS MANUAL TOOTHBRUSHES

Yes, electric toothbrushes really are better. In fact, a large study involving over 5,000 people found that electric toothbrush users had 21% less plaque and 11% less gum inflammation after three months compared to manual brush users. That’s a pretty solid reason to plug in.

Manual brushes still work—but only if your technique is excellent, consistent, and you're brushing for the full two minutes. And let’s be honest, most of us are doing the 30-second express version 🕒

In fact, studies show that nearly 70–80% of people don’t brush effectively, often missing key areas and using incorrect techniques. And no matter how skilled you are, your hand can’t compete with an electric toothbrush. Some electric brushes produce up to 31,000 brush strokes per minute—something no manual effort can match. That’s a whole lot of cleaning power in just two minutes.

If brushing feels like a struggle (no shame—I’ve been there), switching to an electric brush can seriously level up your routine.

SONIC VS OSCILLATING

Sonic Electric Toothbrush

WHAT’S THE DEAL?

Not all electric toothbrushes are created equal. There are two main types:

  • Sonic brushes (like Sonicare): These vibrate at super high speeds and give you that gentle, buzzing sensation.

  • Oscillating-rotating brushes (like Oral-B): These have round heads that spin and pulse to break up plaque.

Both do a great job, but studies show that oscillating-rotating brushes might have a slight edge when it comes to removing plaque—especially in hard-to-reach spots. That said, whichever type helps you brush consistently and thoroughly is the one for you.

Not sure which one you have?
Sonic brushes usually have an oval or rectangular head and make a high-frequency buzzing sound. Oscillating-rotating brushes have a small, round head that visibly spins or pulses when turned on. If the head moves in circles, it's oscillating. If it just vibrates in place, it's sonic.

Oscillating Electric Toothbrush

WHICH IS BETTER FOR YOU?

Here’s the fun part: matching your brush to your needs:

  • Sensitive gums or enamel? Try a gentle sonic brush.

  • Wearing braces? Oscillating-rotating brushes are great for getting around brackets.

  • Struggle with hand movement or grip? Electric brushes do most of the work for you. Whether it’s a sonic or oscillating-rotating brush, either type can be helpful—just choose one that feels comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver 💪

No matter what you choose, remember: a toothbrush is only as good as how you use it.

🔋 A Quick Note on Battery-Powered Brushes

If you're using a brush that runs on AA batteries, consider upgrading to a rechargeable model. Battery-powered brushes tend to lose power over time, which means less effective cleaning. They also lack features like:

  • Consistent brushing speed

  • Pressure sensors

  • Built-in timers

  • Long-term durability

Rechargeable brushes are usually more powerful and deliver better results for your gums and teeth.

And here’s something cool—some smart brushes connect to apps on your phone 📱 to track how you brush. They give you a brushing “score,” highlight areas you missed, and even guide you in real time (hello, Oral-B Assist!). It’s like a tiny coach in your bathroom—minus the attitude 😅

 

💡 Dr. Foxy’s Top Tips

  • Let the toothbrush do the work—don’t scrub like you’re cleaning a stain out of a shirt.

  • For sonic brushes: Glide the brush slowly along the gum line and tooth surfaces.

  • For oscillating-rotating brushes: Hold the brush on each tooth for a few seconds before moving on.

  • Brush for two full minutes ⏲️

  • Use light pressure—scrubbing harder doesn’t mean cleaner 🚫

  • Replace your brush head every 3 months, or sooner if you’ve been sick, dropped it, or the bristles are frayed 🗓️

Fun fact: Some brushes even light up red if you’re brushing too hard. That’s high-tech hygiene.

A Final Note

STILL NOT SURE WHAT’S BEST FOR YOUR SMILE?

Reply to this email and I’ll help you choose. Because brushing should be simple, effective, and maybe even a little fun 🎉

Stay smiling.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

Until next time,

SMILE COUTURE

Where wellness meets wow