When Should I Buy My Child an Electric Toothbrush?

Have you ever wondered if children could use an electric toothbrush? It may surprise you to learn that they can. Not only does it clean their teeth, but it’s a fun and effective way to help them establish good brushing habits. So, if your little one tends to throw tantrums and fits every time you ask them to brush their teeth, an electric toothbrush could be a great solution! Before you go shopping for one, here’s what you should know about electric toothbrushes for kids.

What Age Should I Buy My Child an Electric Toothbrush?

Getting children to stay on top of their oral hygiene routine can be a battle for some parents. They may dread brushing and flossing because it’s such a mundane task or not want to do it simply out of sheer reluctance. If that sounds like your kid, you might be considering buying them an electric toothbrush as a form of encouragement. But at what age is it appropriate? Well, a child can start using an electric toothbrush as young as two years old! However, most families like to wait and introduce one between the ages of six and eight. Whenever you decide to do it, it’s important to avoid forcing it on your child as it could create a negative experience with brushing.

The Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush

Some parents wonder if it’s even worth buying a child an electric toothbrush. To put those doubts to rest, here are some benefits your little one can reap:

• Ease of Use – An electric toothbrush will do most of the work for your child, making brushing a whole lot easier for them!
• Plaque Removal – Did you know that electric toothbrushes remove more plaque than manual toothbrushes? That means they’re better at preventing cavities, tooth decay, and other dental issues!
• Newfound Enthusiasm – Your child may be excited to use their electric toothbrush and have a newfound enthusiasm for keeping their teeth clean.
• Specialized Bristles – A soft-bristled toothbrush offers unique cushioning that provides gentle yet effective cleaning.  

What Should I Look for When Buying a Kids’ Electric Toothbrush?

You want to make sure you get your child a high-quality toothbrush that’ll effectively, yet carefully, clean their teeth and gums. Here are some things to look for while shopping for one:

• Choosing an electric toothbrush with the proper head shape and size will ensure your child’s mouth gets a thorough cleaning
• A high-quality electric toothbrush with bristles that don’t wear down easily
• A rechargeable toothbrush as opposed to a battery-powered one

Ultimately, electric toothbrushes are an excellent tool for kids who have good brushing and flossing techniques. If you’re on the fence about getting one for your child, ask your dentist for help – they will recommend the best course of action for your little one.

About the Practice

At Happy Teeth of Levittown, we strive to make every patient feel comfortable, relaxed, and accommodated during their visit. Our goal is to help everyone that walks through our doors achieve and maintain their happiest, healthiest smiles. If you have any questions about electric toothbrushes for kids, we’re more than happy to answer them for you. Visit our website or call (267) 580-9657 to speak to a member of our team.