Electric toothbrushes can help kids get a deeper clean with some added fun!
Persuading kids to brush their teeth can be a real challenge at times. Electric toothbrushes can make brushing time easier and more fun for your little ones!
The first electric toothbrushes came onto the market in the 1950s. Its advanced plaque removing technology was designed for people with limited motor skills and orthodontic patients. Today, many adults and children enjoy the oral health benefits that come from electric toothbrush use.
Benefits of Electric Toothbrush Use for Children:
Young children haven’t fully developed their manual dexterity, making it challenging for them to effectively clean their teeth with a manual toothbrush. The vibrating bristles on an electric toothbrush can adequately remove plaque with less intricate technique from the child.
Electric toothbrushes also have a handy 2-minute timer built into them to ensure the correct amount of brushing time. Most electric toothbrushes also pause slightly every 30 seconds to signal the child to move to the next quadrant of the mouth.
Electric toothbrushes for kids also have some fun features to get your child excited about brushing their teeth. They come in bright colors or are themed with popular kid characters. Some electric toothbrushes even light up!
When Can Children Start Using Electric Toothbrushes?
Children can start using an electric toothbrush around 3-years-old with parental supervision. They should use a child-sized toothbrush head to ensure it can comfortably reach all their teeth. Toddlers should use a toothbrush head with soft bristles since they are gentler on the gums while new teeth are growing in.
Tips on How to Use an Electric Toothbrush
Electric toothbrushes are also great for kids and teens with braces. They can clean around brackets, elastics, and underwires more sufficiently than a manual toothbrush.
While electric toothbrushes are great tools, they can’t do all the work on their own. It is important to supervise your child when they first start using one and make sure they are using it accurately.
The American Dental Association has stated that manual toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes both effectively remove plaque. Manual toothbrushes may be better for some children who do not like the vibration from an electric toothbrush.
Whatever toothbrush a child uses, ensure they brush for two minutes twice a day and floss daily. If you aren’t sure what toothbrush is best for your child, don’t hesitate to ask at their next appointment!
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