One Change That Will Improve Your Health

The link between oral health and overall health is clearer than ever, with experts identifying clear links between gum disease and other health issues such as an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. With that in mind, looking after your teeth is paramount, not just for keeping your mouth healthy, but the rest of you, too. And the easiest way to do that? Buy an electric toothbrush.

If you’re still one of the third of UK adults who still use a manual toothbrush, now’s the time to make the change to electric. According to scientists who undertook an 11-year study examining the brushing habits of the UK, those who used electric toothbrushes had healthier gums and experienced less tooth decay. The same people also kept their own teeth for longer compared with those who use a manual toothbrush. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, also found that using an electric toothbrush resulted in 22% less gum recession and 18% less tooth decay over the 11-year period.

It’s not just the fact that the small electric heads are better able to get into every nook and cranny in your mouth that large manual heads just can’t reach, but the timer functions on electric toothbrushes also mean you’re much more likely to brush for the full, required two minutes. Given that the vibrations of electric toothbrushes do all the hard work for you, you’re less likely to tackle your brushing with too much vigour too, which can wear down and damage your teeth and gums, and potentially cause issues like gum recession and enamel wear.

If you have been convinced to make the change, opt for a rechargeable brush over a battery-powered one. Not only are battery-operated ones a less sustainable long-term option, the impetus to continue with your new brushing habits can easily be lost between battery changes.