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Toothbrush showdown: electric vs manual for older folks

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john_pupper
Posts: 21
(@john_pupper)
Eminent Member
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I've noticed the same thing about the brush heads wearing out quicker. At first, I thought it was just me being paranoid (wouldn't be the first time, lol), but after switching to a softer head and easing up on pressure, it still happens. Maybe they're just not built to last long? Honestly though, my dentist keeps saying my teeth look better, so I guess I'll just keep stocking up on replacements... better safe than sorry, right?

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Posts: 8
(@michellep30)
Active Member
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Yeah, electric brush heads do tend to wear out faster, especially if you're brushing thoroughly twice a day. It's pretty normal, actually. A lot of my patients notice the same thing, even with gentler pressure. Manufacturers usually recommend replacing them every 3 months, but honestly, around 2 months seems more realistic for most people. If your dentist says things look good, you're probably doing it right—just keep an eye out and swap them when the bristles start fraying or losing shape.

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zfisher23
Posts: 12
(@zfisher23)
Active Member
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"Manufacturers usually recommend replacing them every 3 months, but honestly, around 2 months seems more realistic for most people."

Haha, seriously though, at the rate these electric heads wear out, my wallet's starting to miss my old manual brush. Anyone else feel like they're funding someone's yacht with these replacements...?

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Posts: 4
(@tea_luna)
New Member
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"Haha, seriously though, at the rate these electric heads wear out, my wallet's starting to miss my old manual brush."

Yeah, I totally get that feeling. I've been tracking my replacements (yes, I'm that person...), and honestly, they rarely last the full three months. Maybe it's the pressure sensors or just softer bristles, but around 7-8 weeks, they're already looking pretty worn. Still, my dentist swears electric brushes are better for gum health, especially as we age, so I guess it's a trade-off between dental bills and brush heads...

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medicine_diesel2054
Posts: 8
(@medicine_diesel2054)
Active Member
Joined:

I hear you on the replacement heads—mine never seem to make it past two months either. I used to think it was just me brushing too aggressively (my dentist once joked I brush like I'm scrubbing grout), but even after easing up, they still fray pretty quickly. Still, I gotta say, switching to electric has been a game changer for my gums. I used to get lectured every check-up about gum recession, but since going electric, those awkward dentist-chair conversations have gotten way shorter and less guilt-inducing.

Funny story though: my dad stubbornly stuck with his trusty manual brush for decades, swearing electric brushes were just overpriced gadgets. Then one Christmas, we got him an electric toothbrush as a joke gift. Fast forward a year later, and he's now the biggest convert in the family—he even lectures me about proper brushing technique! Guess sometimes old habits just need a gentle nudge...

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