What an electric toothbrush really costs

The shop price of an electric toothbrush is only part of the cost: every few months the brush head has to be changed, and over time the heads often cost more than the handle. A manual toothbrush is cheap, but it has to be replaced just as often. This calculator compares the annual cost of the two options, for one or more people, and shows how much the heads weigh.

It works in any currency: enter the prices you actually pay, including offers or multipacks.

How the calculation works

• Electric: handle price divided by its lifespan in years, plus the year's heads (12 divided by the months between changes, times the price of one head).
• Manual: the year's brushes times the price of one brush.
• People: each person has their own brush or heads; an electric handle can be shared, but the calculation assumes one handle per person.
• Heads share: how much of the electric spending goes on heads.

The verdict is based on the ratio between the annual electric and manual costs, which does not depend on the currency.

Heads weigh more than the handle

With a 50 handle lasting 4 years, heads changed every 3 months and a 2 manual brush changed every 3 months:

Choosing compatible heads or multipacks, where the handle allows it, cuts spending more than any discount on the handle.

How much the handle price matters

With 5 heads every 3 months and the same manual brush:

Only with the most expensive models does the handle become the main item: for mid-range models the heads matter most.

How often to change the head

The American Dental Association recommends replacing a toothbrush or brush head every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Stretching the interval reduces spending, but worn bristles clean less well. With a 50 handle and 5 heads:

The bands of the verdict

• Electric below the manual cost: rare, but possible with expensive or frequently changed manual brushes.
• Up to one and a half times: the electric brush costs only a little more.
• One and a half to three times: a moderate difference.
• Three to six times: a clear difference, typical of mid-range models.
• More than six times: an expensive handle or pricey heads against a cheap manual brush.

Beyond price

A 2014 Cochrane review found that powered toothbrushes reduce plaque and gingivitis moderately compared with manual ones. Technique matters most, though: two minutes, twice a day, with fluoride toothpaste. Your dentist or hygienist can advise on the type of brush best suited to your teeth and gums.

Limits of the calculator

The calculation does not include the electricity for charging, which is negligible, or accessories such as cases or travel chargers. It assumes constant prices and one handle per person. If the handle breaks earlier than expected or the battery loses capacity, shorten the lifespan.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an electric toothbrush cost per year?

With a 50 handle lasting 4 years and 5 heads changed every 3 months, about 32.50 a year: 12.50 for the handle and 20 for heads.

Does the handle or the heads cost more?

For mid-range models the heads: in the example they make up over 60% of the spending. The handle becomes the main item only with the most expensive models.

How often should the head be changed?

The American Dental Association recommends every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. The same rule applies to manual toothbrushes.

Does an electric toothbrush clean better?

A 2014 Cochrane review found a moderate reduction in plaque and gingivitis compared with manual brushes. What matters most, though, is brushing well, two minutes twice a day.

Is it worth using compatible heads?

They often cost much less than the originals and reduce annual spending; check that they fit the handle well and that the bristles are of good quality.

How much does charging cost?

Very little: charging an electric toothbrush usually costs less than one unit of currency a year, which is why the calculator leaves it out.

Can a family share the handle?

Yes, each person with their own head. In that case enter the handle price divided by the number of people.

How long does an electric toothbrush handle last?

Often several years; the battery tends to lose capacity over time. Enter the lifespan you expect from experience or the warranty.

Should a manual brush be changed as often as a head?

Yes, the recommendation is the same: every 3-4 months or when the bristles splay.

Does the calculator work for sonic toothbrushes?

Yes, the calculation is the same: enter the handle and head prices of your model.

What does the difference over the horizon mean?

It is how much more, or less, you spend with the electric brush over the number of years you choose, for all the people entered.

Does it work in any currency?

Yes. Enter all prices in the same currency; the verdict is based on the ratio between costs, which does not depend on the currency.