Can You Use an Electric Toothbrush with Braces

Every time I wash my hands in the office restroom, I notice the same girl at the mirror - ponytail, silver braces, diligently brushing her teeth with a regular toothbrush. As a loyal fan of electric toothbrushes, I started wondering - are they good for people with braces? So, I did some digging, and here we are.

Experience from Brace Users

- Redditor: My dentist recommended electrical toothbrush for me, I live in Sweden if that makes a difference. 

- Users find electric brushes are easier and faster to use, and there are no reports of damage to braces when used properly. However, orthodontist suggest frequent brush head replacement. 
 

Research Findings for electric toothbrush with braces

1. Improved Plaque Removal
A study in The American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics found that electric toothbrushes help users with braces maintain better oral hygiene. The biggest impact was seen in those who struggled with oral care - when they switched to an electric toothbrush, their plaque levels dropped significantly compared to using a manual one. For those who already had good oral hygiene, the difference wasn't as noticeable. 
 
2.  Healthier Gums
Braces can lead to gum inflammation and bleeding by trapping food and plaque. Research shows that electric toothbrushes help reduce gingivitis and improve gum health. In a clinical trial, an oscillating-rotating electric toothbrush was found to be more effective at reducing plaque and gum bleeding in people with braces than a manual toothbrush.
3. Preventing Tooth Decay and Decalcification
One of the biggest concerns for people with braces is the higher risk of cavities and enamel decalcification, often caused by inadequate brushing around brackets and wires. 
A 2023 (https://doi.org/10.3390/dj11020046) systematic review and meta-analysis found strong clinical evidence supporting electric toothbrushes for both kids and orthodontic patients. 
Braces wearers who used electric toothbrushes saw a significant reduction in plaque buildup around brackets, helping prevent cavities and white spots. The superior ability of electric toothbrushes to clean around orthodontic appliances plays a key role in reducing decalcification. 
 
4.Easier to Use, Better Compliance 
Keeping teeth clean with braces is essential for long-term oral health. Electric toothbrushes - whether sonic or rotating - can make the process easier and more effective (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-56017-1). They may also boost motivation, which is especially helpful during orthodontic treatment, which often lasts two years or more. 
The American Dental Association did a survey. It found that patients using electric toothbrushes were more likely to brush for the recommended 2 minutes. 
Electric toothbrushes have built - in timers and pressure sensors. These features help people develop more consistent brushing habits. This is especially true for younger patients or those having a hard time keeping the right brushing technique.

How to choose the right electric toothbrush for braces

If you have braces, choosing the right electric toothbrush can feel like a lot. But really, it comes down to a few key things - making sure it cleans around brackets and wires properly without being too harsh on your gums. Here's what to keep in mind: 
 

• Brush Heads That Work for Braces – Some electric toothbrushes come with special brush heads that make it easier to reach around brackets and wires. They're worth it.
• Soft Bristles Only – Hard bristles? Not a good idea. They can irritate your gums and even damage your braces. Soft bristles clean just as well—without the risk.
• Easy to Carry – If you travel a lot or just want to brush after meals, a compact toothbrush makes life easier.
• Pressure Sensor – Brushing too hard isn't great for your gums (or your braces). A pressure sensor helps you find the right balance.
• Built-In Timer – Two minutes is longer than it feels. A timer makes sure you don't stop too soon.
• Self-Sterilizing – Bacteria love toothbrushes. Some models, like GearOra, help keep things cleaner with a built-in sterilization feature.

At the end of the day, the best toothbrush is the one that helps you stay consistent. Find one that feels right, and your teeth (and your orthodontist) will thank you later.

Easy Tips for Keeping Your Braces Clean

Rinse it out – After brushing, give your mouth (and your toothbrush) a good rinse to clear out any leftover toothpaste or food bits. 
Floss daily (yeah, really) – Flossing with braces can be a pain, but floss threaders or dental picks make it way easier. Totally worth it. 
Carry a mini cleaning kit –A travel toothbrush, some toothpaste, and a little mouthwash can be lifesavers when you're out and about. 
Replace the out your toothbrush head often – Braces wear down bristles fast. Change your  brush head every couple of months so it actually does its job.

Final Thought

Using an electric toothbrush with braces? Probably one of the smartest moves you can make. Find one that works for you, stick with good habits, and your future, braces-free self will thank you big time.