Moving Up: Determining When to Upgrade Your Child to an Electric Toothbrush

As a parent, you are encouraged to help and oversee your child’s oral hygiene routine. Whether it’s helping them clean those hard-to-reach areas of the mouth or simply watching to make sure they brush a full two minutes, you will notice that their brushing (and flossing) skills improve over time. When they do, you may wonder if switching them to an electric toothbrush will produce even better results. A pediatric dentist explains when it might be the right time to introduce your child to a new way of brushing.

Electric Toothbrushes: Key Points to Consider

It might seem like a simple switch for your child to go from a manual to an electric toothbrush, but the truth is that there are many things you’ll want to consider before deciding to do so. For example:

• Electric toothbrushes can be loud, so you’ll want to make sure your child is not afraid of the noise or vibration.
• Using your electric toothbrush around your child can help them to see that it’s nothing to be afraid of but instead can be fun to use.
• Think about your child’s breathing habits. If they use their mouth instead of their nose, brushing may not be an enjoyable time. Introducing an electric toothbrush slowly, while talking about it positively, will help them to view the experience in a more fun way.
• Try having your child use an electric toothbrush without toothpaste. This will allow them to get used to the vibration and feel so that once you introduce additional products, they’ll feel more comfortable.

What is a Good Age for Your Child to Start Using an Electric Toothbrush?

The first thing you should know is that it is not mandatory that your child use an electric toothbrush. Manual ones work just fine and have been used for centuries to maintain healthier teeth and gums.

However, if you want your little one to experience a new way of brushing – one that makes the process a bit easier and more enjoyable – you can begin the process around the age of two, but if you think that’s too early, you might consider waiting until they’re between the ages of six and eight.

The reason is that by this time, they’re likely to have more mature brushing habits, which will make the transition to an electric toothbrush easier.

What Kind of Electric Toothbrush Should a Child Use?

When shopping for the right kind of electric toothbrush, make sure to look for these things:

• One that is designed for a child’s use, so a smaller toothbrush that can easily fit in their hand and provides a good grip.
• One that eliminates plaque from their teeth and gums. You can look to see if the brand provides a plaque score on the packaging, as this will tell you how effective it is.
• Make sure the head shape is smaller, as this will allow them to get to those hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
• A brush with high-quality bristles. It may cost a bit more, but it won’t break down as quickly when your child is using it twice a day.

You know your child best, so if they’re asking about an electric toothbrush, go ahead and start the process. Even if they don’t pick it up right away, you may notice that they develop more confidence over time, which can lead them to make the switch.

About the Practice
Kids Dentist is a pediatric dental practice in Grayslake that is led by a team of professionals who are committed to ensuring healthy, growing smiles. With four dentists and a team of qualified staff, we are here to make oral hygiene fun and exciting for kids of all ages. If your child is asking about using an electric toothbrush to clean their teeth, we invite you to contact us via our website or call (847) 223-1400 to find out what you might need to know before upgrading their oral hygiene products.