I get the appeal of the metal ones—everyone seems to rave about them—but I actually stuck with my plastic scraper after trying both. Not to be a cheapskate, but the plastic one was like a quarter of the price and honestly, I didn’t notice a huge difference except for how cold the metal felt in the morning. Maybe my tongue’s just less sensitive, or maybe I’m missing out, but I can’t justify paying more when the plastic does the job.
Also, I read somewhere that metal can sometimes be a bit harsh if you’re not careful, especially if you have sensitive taste buds or tend to go overboard (which I totally do when something feels “extra clean”). I do get what you’re saying about breath, though—scraping in general made a way bigger difference than I expected. Still, I’m sticking with the budget version for now. If it breaks, maybe I’ll reconsider, but for now, I’d rather put that extra cash toward toothpaste or floss. Anyone else feel like the cheaper options are just as good, or am I missing something?
I used to be on team plastic for ages—mainly because I kept losing them and didn't want to shell out for a metal one every few months. But after my last cleaning, my hygienist basically gave me a mini TED talk about bacteria hiding in the grooves and how metal’s easier to sterilize. I caved and bought a metal one, and honestly, it’s weirdly satisfying? It feels sturdier and like it actually gets more gunk off, though yeah, it’s a bit chilly at 6am. I get what you’re saying about the harshness, though—definitely takes a lighter touch. Still, I feel like the upgrade was worth the few extra bucks for me, if only because it doesn’t warp in hot water.
I totally get the appeal of metal—they do seem to last forever compared to the plastic ones that always end up bending or getting gross after a few weeks. But honestly, I still hesitate because of the price point. I did try a stainless steel one once and yeah, it was cold but worked better. For anyone worried about cost, I found a no-brand metal one online for like $3 and it’s held up fine so far... just takes a bit of hunting.
I did try a stainless steel one once and yeah, it was cold but worked better.
That first icy swipe in the morning is a shock, right? But honestly, my breath has never been fresher. I used to think it was all hype, but now my plastic one just sits there looking sad... Worth the $3, for sure.
That first icy swipe in the morning is a shock, right?
Honestly, I thought I’d never get used to that cold metal feeling, but now I kind of expect it. It’s weirdly satisfying, like a wake-up call before coffee. My dentist once mentioned that stainless steel is way easier to clean too, which made me feel better about switching. I still keep the plastic one around for travel, but it just doesn’t do the job as well. Funny how something so simple can actually make a difference.
