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A study by British researchers found that, with one exception, power electric toothbrushes that cost $100 or more did not work any better than a standard $3 manual toothbrush. The research was undertaken by the Cochrane Oral Health Group; an international non-profit research organization.

The growth in usage of expensive electronic toothbrushes has however been fueled by recommendations by dentists. There is a simple reason for this - profit! I recently changed dentists and my new dentist said that I should buy a sonic electronic toothbrush and that I could get a discount by buying it from his practice. The discount meant that it was still priced at over 100 (c. $200), making it a lucrative sideline for the dentist.

I decided on a middle ground. I was able to buy a sonic electric toothbrush from my local supermarket for 6 (or c. $12); expensive for a toothbrush but a real bargain compared to the brand that my dentist wanted me to purchase!

I guess the choice of whether you opt for electric or manual will depend largely on personal preference. Having switched to an electric toothbrush, I do prefer it. However, just make sure that you don't buy into the myth that electric toothbrushes are the nirvana of dental health-care. The key, which type of toothbrush that you opt for, is to brush thoroughly and cut down on sugary foods.

Learn more about this author, Simon Wright.
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