How Old Should My Child Be To Use An Electric Toothbrush? (2024)

FAQs

How Old Should My Child Be To Use An Electric Toothbrush? ›

From a safety standpoint, with proper instruction and supervision, electric toothbrushes are safe for children 3 years old and older. Children younger than 3 should use manual toothbrushes.

According to the CDA, children under the age of 3 should have their teeth brushed by an adult, using a manual toothbrush with soft bristles. Once children are over the age of 3, they can then “graduate” to an electric brush. However, they should be brushing under the guidance of an adult until the age of 6.

Luckily, using an electric toothbrush can make preventing cavities a fun experience. Children often find them much easier and more comfortable to use. However, it's recommended to wait until your child is at least 2-3 years old before introducing them to one.

However, if you are considering having your child use an electric toothbrush, it is best to wait until your child turns three years old. While an electric toothbrush is safe for both children and adults, at least by the age of three, your child will be able to hold the brush properly.

Dental Professional Recommendations

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using an electric toothbrush – or a manual one that has the ADA Seal of Approval – for all children as soon as their first tooth erupts.

Do not use an electric toothbrush with children younger than three years old. Before that, a manual toothbrush like the Oral-B Manual Toothbrush Baby 0-2 Years featuring Winnie the Pooh should be used.

Some children (and even adults) don't clean their teeth efficiently using a manual toothbrush, even with guidance from their dentist. An electric toothbrush can make this easier by performing the brushing action for you and is usually recommended by dentists for children whose teeth show signs of poor brushing.

It is actually a good way to keep their teeth healthy and remove plaque effectively. But make sure your child is atleast 3 years old and use powered toothbrush under your supervision. Children under 3 should not use it as the gum has not finished developing and they can have sensitive teeth.

Show your child the electric toothbrush, and how it works, before she tries to use it. Show her how to turn it on and off, how to rinse it thoroughly, and how to place it on the charger. Smaller children may feel a little scared by the sounds and vibrations of the electric toothbrush at first.

What is the recommended age for children to use a Kid's Spinbrush toothbrush? We recommend Spinbrush toothbrushes for children 3 years and up.

What age is appropriate for Oral B electric toothbrush? ›

Yes, children can use any power brush in our range (including adult versions) once they reach age 3. Children under 3 should not use power brushes as the gum has not finished developing and young children have sensitive teeth.

Yes. In clinical studies Philips Sonicare For Kids has been proven safe and gentle on teeth and gums for ages four and older.

Every child is different, but around the age of 10 years old, your child's mouth should be large enough for an adult toothbrush to fit comfortably.

From a safety standpoint, with proper instruction and supervision, electric toothbrushes are safe for children 3 years old and older. Children younger than 3 should use manual toothbrushes.

While research does not show a significant difference in the amount of plaque removed, we recommend an electric toothbrush if it will get the kids excited about brushing and assure that they will do so twice a day. Manual toothbrushes, on the other hand, can be just as effective as their high-tech counterparts.

First, as with manual toothbrushes, you should make sure the electric toothbrush is sized appropriately for your child's age and that it has soft bristles. Second, keep in mind that not all electric toothbrushes are created equal in terms of their ability to remove plaque.

0-3 Years Old: Finger Slip or Infant Toothbrushes for Babies

One option many pediatric dentists recommend is a finger slip toothbrush. This baby-friendly toothbrush made of textured silicone is a great way to remove any sugar or milk build-up on your child's gums and is easy to use.

It doesn't matter how old your child is; you want their toothbrush to be easy to handle and easy to use. Choose a toothbrush with round-ended or “polished” soft bristles; these round-ended bristles clean kids' teeth well without being harsh on their gums.

If you're looking for a great electric toothbrush for kids at a reasonable price, the Philips Sonicare for Kids was by far our favorite. Our child testers much preferred its feel and handling — especially the brush head — and we liked extra features such as multiple modes and a dedicated on/off button.

Children can start using adult toothpaste when they can safely chew and swallow small objects on their own. Typically, this is around the time their permanent teeth come in, usually between ages 6-8. Be sure to consult with your dentist before starting your child on adult toothpaste.