Are electric toothbrushes really better than manual ones?

Yes, according to most dental research. A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that electric toothbrushes reduce plaque by 21% more and gingivitis by 11% more than manual brushing after three months of use. Oscillating rotating and sonic technologies both outperform manual brushing, though each works differently. That said, a manual toothbrush used properly with good technique is still effective electric brushes just make it easier to achieve consistent results.