The electric toothbrush generates between 1,300 and 62,000 vibrations per minute depending on whether it is mechanical rotation or high-frequency sound waves
Type of electric toothbrush
There are two main types:
Vibrating/Rotary toothbrush. This is a type where a small round head rotates back and forth. It usually performs between 1,300 and 8,800 brushing operations per minute.
Sonic toothbrush. Use high-speed vibration to wash teeth. At first, it may feel different in usability. It usually performs 24,000-30,000 brush movements per minute.
How to choose the vibration frequency that meets your needs
Not all electric toothbrushes are the same. The ideal vibration frequency depends on the individual oral care needs. The points to consider are summarized below.
- Those with sensitive teeth and gums
Those with sensitive gums may have a low vibration frequency (approx. 20,000-30,000 MPM). These toothbrushes provide a gentle brushing experience while effectively removing plaque. - When requesting thorough cleaning
For thorough cleaning, choose a toothbrush with a high vibration frequency (over 40,000 MPM). These models are ideal for those who want to maximize the removal of plaque and improve gum health. - For whitening
A toothbrush with a high vibration count can effectively remove coloring stains on the surface of teeth, making it an ideal choice for those who value teeth whitening. - General use
For most people, a toothbrush with vibrations ranging from 30,000 to 40,000 MPM is ideal for balancing efficacy and comfort
Sonic (vibrating) toothbrush
The Sonic toothbrush has an elongated oval head, similar to the usual handbrush. Extremely fast left- and right-vibration cleans the teeth. It depends on the model, but it reaches between 24,000 and 62,000 vibrations per minute. This is not a misprint.Because the vibration is very fast, the sonic toothbrush creates a phenomenon that manufacturers call a “fluid dynamic” effect. The rapid movement of the hair tip stirs saliva and toothpaste in the mouth and helps to break down plaque in the area just outside the area where the hair tip is actually touching. At least in part, there are independent studies that support this theory. On the other hand, some believe that the practical effect is overestimated. Honestly, it’s probably about the middle of it.
Vibration/Rotary Toothbrush
The rotary toothbrush has a compact round head and rotates in one direction and then in the opposite direction. In other words, it moves back and forth, and sometimes pulses are combined. Speed is slower than Sonic’s, and it is about 2,500 to 8,800 times per minute. But the movement is more focused.Instead of brushing the entire tooth row, place the head on one tooth and move it from intact for a few seconds to the next. Oral B manufactures the most representative products of this type. A round head is the biggest feature.
Optional Features
Timer
Most recent electric toothbrushes are equipped with a timer function where the buzzer rings and the power is temporarily cut every 30 seconds, usually after 2 minutes. [51] This is based on the recommendation that the mouth be divided into 4 quadrants, each 30 seconds, brushing for a total of 2 minutes. [52]
Display
Some electric toothbrushes have LCD screens that display brushing time, and smile marks and other images may be displayed to encourage optimal brushing. These features may encourage more accurate brushing. [53]
Pressure Sensor
If you brush your teeth too strongly, it will damage the enamel and gums, so some electric toothbrushes have pressure sensors that prevent the user from brushing excessively strongly. [51]
Ultrasonic Indicator
Ultrasound frequency is beyond the audible range, and the amplitude of the vibration emitted from the ultrasonic toothbrush is usually small enough to detect, so ultrasound is not detectable to humans. Therefore, if pure ultrasonic mode is turned on, it may be difficult to understand that the toothbrush is working. Ultrasonic toothbrushes may have an indicator that informs the user that an ultrasound is emitted. [51]
BluetoothThe Bluetooth connection enables the transfer of data from an electric toothbrush to other Bluetooth-enabled devices such as smartphones. The toothbrush can send data such as brushing time and whether the pressure at brushing is too strong to the mobile app. [51] The app can also send data such as changes in settings to the toothbrush.