Are electric toothbrushes waterproof?

Are electric toothbrushes waterproof? It might seem like a daft question, but given that experts simultaneously recommend battery assisted brushing while advising strongly against running electronic appliances under the bathroom tap, it’s one that needs to be addressed (and something we’ll answer further down below).

Manufacturers know their products are going to be getting used with water, so they take measures to ensure they’re safe. But does that mean you can submerge your toothbrush without a care in the world? Well, let’s brush up on the facts to find out.

Should I use an electric toothbrush?

Short answer: yes. Dentists around the globe are in universal agreement that electric toothbrushes are better than manual ones across the board. Thanks to their superior cleaning power, they’re able to remove dirt that lesser brushes might miss, and they can get into those hard-to-reach spots where plaque and tartar have a tendency to build up. They also employ features such as pressure indicators and timers to ensure you aren’t brushing to excess.

There’s also a case to be made for electric toothbrushes being more cost effective in the long run, due to the fact that the heads need replacing less frequently than old-fashioned toothbrushes. Though admittedly, there’s not much in it.

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How often should I change my electric toothbrush head?

So, how often should you change it? General advice states that regular toothbrushes should be replaced every two months to perform at their best, but you can wait a little longer before switching out your electric toothbrush head for a new one. The general advice is to pop on a new one every 90 days for best results.

Are electric toothbrushes waterproof?

The answer, fortunately, is generally yes. Electric toothbrushes, on the whole, are designed to be waterproof. Obviously it’s a good idea to check the instructions for your specific model, but in general, you can run them under the tap and even use them in the shower if you’re in a rush.

That being said, most manufacturers advise against submerging electric toothbrushes in water completely. So that’s a very clear “no” to underwater brushing in the bath – don’t try it.

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