When Can Your Kids Start Using an Electric Toothbrush? | Children's Dental Center (2024)

“Can my kids use an electric toothbrush? Should they?” “Are electric toothbrushes worth the money?” “Are electric toothbrushes safe for kids?”

These are some of the questions that parents ask us when they bring their kids in for a cleaning.

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.

As to whether your kids “should” use an electric toothbrush or not, here’s a rule of thumb: if it helps your kid develop and maintain consistent brushing habits, it’s a good idea.

To refine that statement a little more, we’ll take a look at some relevant data points:

  1. Electric toothbrushes can make the brushing process more fun for kids, i.e., provide motivation for them and their brushing habits. Many electric toothbrush manufacturers offer children’s models, featuring child-sized brushing heads and fun-colored, character-themed handles. In addition to that, if you have an electric toothbrush, it’s only natural for your kids to want to be like you, and they might be more motivated to brush if they have a brush like yours.
  2. Studies indicate that electric brushes consistently remove more plaque from teeth than manual brushes do, but the most important factor in maintaining healthy teeth is still brushing twice a day for 2 minutes. In other words, the frequency and quality of the brushing matters more than the type of brush. Some electric toothbrushes for kids have 2-minute timers built into them. That feature can help your kids know how long they need to brush.
  3. Electric toothbrushes can sometimes be a little scary to kids with sensory issues because of the noise and vibrations. Some kids, however, love the sensations, and kids with limited mobility can really benefit from an electric toothbrush. The takeaway here is to be in tune with your child’s needs and reactions to the toothbrush. If an electric brush feels intimidating to them, then it’s not going to help them build good habits in the long run.

For best results, as you consider what toothbrush to buy for your kids, we recommend involving them in the process in an age-appropriate way. What kind of toothbrush do they want? What colors or characters? Do they want an electric brush like mom’s or dad’s or another one like their old brush? As long as it’s a soft-bristled, kid-sized head, you can let them be part of the toothbrush decision and keep them on the road to developing life-long healthy teeth habits.

When Can Your Kids Start Using an Electric Toothbrush? | Children's Dental Center (2024)

FAQs

When Can Your Kids Start Using an Electric Toothbrush? | Children's Dental Center? ›

These are some of the questions that parents ask us when they bring their kids in for a cleaning. From a safety standpoint, with proper instruction and supervision, electric toothbrushes are safe for children 3 years old and older.

At what age can a child start using an electric toothbrush? ›

However, it's recommended to wait until your child is at least 2-3 years old before introducing them to one. It's important not to force an electric toothbrush on children as it could leave a lasting negative impression. Most parents know their child is ready for one when they ask for it.

Why can't kids under 3 use an electric toothbrush? ›

Children under 3 should not use power brushes as the gum has not finished developing and young children have sensitive teeth.

Why wait until 3 to use electric toothbrush? ›

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.

Are electric toothbrushes good for 6 year olds? ›

From the age of 5 or 6, electric toothbrushes adapted for children are alternative instruments that are highly recommended. Another advantage of electric toothbrushes for kids is their connectivity. Some, for example, have a timer to ensure that the recommended brushing time of 2 minutes is respected.

Can toddlers use Oral B electric toothbrush? ›

For children 3+, you can begin a superior oral care regimen for your child with an electric toothbrush.

What kind of toothbrush is best for a 1 year old? ›

The Best Toothbrushes for Babies and Toddlers
  • PICK: Any soft bristled toothbrush, including manual brushes and electric brushes.
  • PICK: A product with the American Dental Association seal of approval.
  • SKIP: A silicone brush or finger brush, unless you're using it as a teether.
Oct 4, 2023

What are the disadvantages of electric toothbrushes for kids? ›

Comparing Electric Toothbrush Advantages And Disadvantages Over Manual Brushing
CriteriaElectric Brush
CostInitial investment may be higher.
Dependency on PowerRequires batteries or access to electrical outlets.
Learning CurveMay involve a learning curve for users new to electric brushing.
8 more rows
Aug 9, 2023

Can I use Sonicare on a toddler? ›

Yes, its soft bristles and two kid-friendly power modes (low and high mode) ensure a gentle but effective clean. Its unique rubber overmold feature provides additional protection for children's teeth. 29. Can Sonicare FlexCare be used by children?

Should a 12 year old use an adult electric toothbrush? ›

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. An electric toothbrush is also a great alternative if your child builds up plaque easily or if there are visible stains on their teeth.

When should I get an electric toothbrush? ›

Kids can start using an electric toothbrush at age two – with supervision and without toothpaste – but many families don't introduce electric brushes until at least age six. You can certainly do it earlier, but don't force it – bad experiences with brushing could leave lasting negative impressions.

What should you not do with an electric toothbrush? ›

Scrubbing back and forth with an electric toothbrush can irritate and wear away at your gums over time, resulting in receding gums. Instead, simply guide your toothbrush along your teeth at a 45 degree angle to your gums – the ideal angle for sweeping away plaque from the gum line. Using too much pressure.

How many times should you brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush? ›

If you brush your teeth regularly with an electric toothbrush, ideally twice a day, you will typically only need to replace the brush head every two to three months.

What age can a child start using an electric toothbrush? ›

When Can a Child Start Using an Electric Toothbrush? If you're considering brushing your child's teeth with an electric toothbrush, wait until your child is at least three years old. Do not use an electric toothbrush with children younger than three years old.

What toothbrush is best for a 9 year old? ›

For optimal results, try using Aquafresh Advance toothbrush with Aquafresh Advance toothpaste. The toothpaste delivers fluoride into the enamel whilst having low abrasivity. It provides cavity prevention and enamel protection, helping keep your kid's teeth healthy, while staying gentle on teeth, cleaning in and spaces.

Can an adult use a kids electric toothbrush? ›

Yes. Consider buying the "adult" heads for everyone, they are very similar.

Can I give my 2 year old an electric toothbrush? ›

When Should a Child Start Using an Electric Toothbrush? If you're considering brushing your child's teeth with an electric toothbrush, wait until your child is at least three years old. Do not use an electric toothbrush with children younger than three years old.

What toothbrush should a 9 year old use? ›

Aquafresh Advance 9-12 Years Kids Toothbrush - Boots.

How long to brush 1 year old teeth? ›

Brush the teeth and along the gum line to clean every tooth thoroughly (about two minutes is a good guide). Brush gently in small circles.

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