You may be asking yourself, “Should my child be using an electric toothbrush?” When it comes to your child’s dental health, we know you want to make the best choices so they can enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles! At Wild Smiles Children’s Dentistry, we’re here to break down the benefits of an electric toothbrush versus the benefits of a manual toothbrush and answer your questions.
What are the Benefits of an Electric Toothbrush?
Electric toothbrushes are a great way for your child to keep their teeth clean, and they provide many benefits when used regularly in an oral care routine. The small vibrations created by the electric toothbrush effectively keep your child’s teeth clean with even the smallest movements!
Easily and Effectively Removes Plaque
Electric toothbrushes are an excellent way to remove cavity-causing plaque with less effort! The vibrations and movements made by the toothbrush help remove plaque and tartar in places that might be harder to reach with a manual toothbrush. Pediatric dentists recommend electric toothbrushes for kids who have braces or limited mobility for this reason!
They Come with a Timer
Many electric toothbrushes come with a built-in timer! This takes the guesswork out of making sure you brush your teeth for an appropriate amount of time, every time. Getting an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer helps your child slow down their dental care routine and ensure they’re deep cleaning their teeth and gums every time they brush.
Stay Focused While Brushing
With timers, pressure sensors, and different brushing modes, an electric toothbrush can help your child stay focused while brushing, become more aware of their dental care habits, and have fun while doing it!
What are the Negatives of Electric Toothbrushes?
While electric toothbrushes are incredibly beneficial, there are a few things to keep in mind when deciding whether to switch your child over to an electric toothbrush.
Check Out the Price Tag
Electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual toothbrushes. They can cost anywhere from $20 to $200, depending on which brand and model you prefer. In addition to buying the electric toothbrush, you’ll also need to purchase replacement brush heads. A pack of brush heads can be purchased for $5 to $10. Talk to your child’s dentist about the best electric toothbrush for your budget.
They Can Be Fragile
Most electric toothbrushes can last a long time, but like all electronics, you have to take care of them. Travel cases are a great way to protect your electric toothbrush while on the go, as they keep your toothbrush from being jostled around when you’re on the move.
Sensory Issues
The vibrating sensation of an electric toothbrush might not be right for everyone! Some patients feel that the toothbrush tickles their gums, and some kids react to the noise. Discuss using an electric toothbrush with your child and understand their individual preferences before investing.
Finding the Right Toothbrush for Your Child
Your pediatric dentist is a great resource for finding the right toothbrush for your child! Your child’s dentist can see their unique dental needs during an exam and give you great recommendations based on their findings. At your child’s next appointment, talk to your dental team to see which toothbrush options are best for your child!
Have More Questions About Which Toothbrush is Best for Your Child? Call Today!
Contact Wild Smiles Children’s Dentistry today to schedule an appointment and ask our dentists about what type of toothbrush is best for your child! Our talented and passionate dental team is here for your child and their individual smile needs. Together, we’ll get your child on the path to healthy smiles for life!
Find Us