Many kids resist certain chores and routines, which unfortunately means convincing them to clean their teeth can be challenging. However, consistently removing plaque and bacteria is essential for preventing common concerns, like cavities, gum disease, and injuries to the enamel.
Many well-meaning parents wonder if switching to an electric toothbrush would encourage their child to participate in their regimen more actively, but are unsure if it’s too soon. If you’re worried your kid is too young, continue reading to learn when switching them to an electronic model is usually safe!
Are Electric Toothbrushes Better?
You’re not alone if you’re wondering whether it’s a good idea to switch your child to an electronic toothbrush. Although they usually cost more than their standard counterparts, studies have revealed that they are more effective at removing plaque and reducing gingivitis, meaning that they achieve a deeper clean.
They also offer additional advantages, like built-in timers that let you know how long to continue brushing. Plus, there are brands designed for children that include fun lights or songs to help make the task more engaging, encouraging them to participate more actively in their routine. These options are also helpful for those with special needs or mobility challenges that make it harder to manipulate a manual toothbrush.
When Can My Child Begin Using Electronic Toothbrushes?
Although no two smiles are exactly alike, children tend to reach dental development milestones at similar times. While your child’s circumstances may vary, there are helpful guidelines that let you know how to care for their mouths during different stages of growth. For instance, primary teeth typically start appearing when they’re about a year old, and it’s recommended that you start brushing them without toothpaste since infants won’t spit it out.
Then, you can start scrubbing their teeth with a toothbrush containing a smaller head and soft bristles to avoid aggravating your little one’s tender tissues. It’s best to use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste that won’t cause harm if swallowed.
As they get older and start to function more independently, they can start cleaning their teeth on their own. Usually, it’s safe to graduate children to an electronic toothbrush once they’re old enough to understand the importance of preventive dental care, like when they’re six to nine years old.
If you’re still unsure whether you should purchase an electronic toothbrush for your child, you can ask their pediatric dentist for recommendations based on your little one’s unique dental circumstances.
About the Practice
At Healthy Kids Pediatric Dentistry, kids aged 0 to 18 benefit from a team of dentists eager to help improve their lives by enhancing their oral health. They have years of combined experience providing a complete array of services to guide still-developing smiles, including basic preventive care. They have specialized training and are members of professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, so you can trust that your child’s grin is in good hands. Then, they combine a caring approach with state-of-the-art technology to keep patients comfortable while delivering accurate results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (301) 871-8880.