Manual toothbrushes are as good as electric toothbrushes, according to a study published by the Cochrane Library.

The review of 42 trials showed that in most cases manual toothbrushes removed as much plaque as their more expensive electronic counterparts, and protected just as well against inflamed gums. The study, led by Professor Peter Robinson of the University of Sheffield, claimed that the only type of electric toothbrush more effective than a manual brush was one with a rotating-oscillating head.

It also found that only brushes with circular heads that move a quarter turn in one direction and then back a quarter turn, clean better than a traditional toothbrush. Professor Robinson explained, “People with electric toothbrushes that don't have rotating-oscillating heads shouldn't worry, as it won't be doing them any harm. However, if they bought an electric toothbrush to get their teeth as clean as possible then it is worth investing in a brush with a rotating-oscillating head.”

The authors of the report asserted that people may be wasting money on toothbrushes they believe will clean their teeth better, when a much cheaper traditional brush would do the job just as well.