Kids Electric Toothbrush

Brushing teeth isn’t the most exciting dental chore for kids, but a quality electric toothbrush can help them get the job done more efficiently. These devices remove more plaque than manual brushes, which helps prevent cavities and gum disease. They also offer features that can encourage better brushing habits, such as built-in timers to remind children to brush for the full two minutes dentists recommend and features that prompt them to move the brush around their mouth to cover all areas.

It’s best to start kids on an kids electric toothbrush when they have at least three baby teeth. That’s when they can begin a regular oral hygiene routine with proper brushing technique, and an electric toothbrush will be easier to maneuver than a manual one. When picking out an electric toothbrush for kids, look for options that have a smaller brush head and handle to accommodate their tiny hands. Make sure the battery is rechargeable and that the bristles are soft enough to avoid abrading children’s delicate gum tissue.

Some models allow parents to add customized settings, which can be a great way to make the experience more fun for reluctant brushers. For example, the Oral-B PowerUp Brush lets you pair your child’s favorite Disney characters with a fun color palette and animated stickers that light up while the toothbrush is in use. Other features include a 30-second reminder to change sides of the mouth and a two-minute timer that plays fun music while they’re brushing.

Picking Out a Kids Electric Toothbrush

If your child has braces, look for a brush with a special head that is designed to reach the tight spaces between them. It’s also important to consider the brush’s shape and size when choosing a kids electric toothbrush, as these factors will affect how easily they can access hard-to-reach spots like back molars and cheeks. A brush that has a head that is angled at a 45-degree angle will help them get those tough spots without damaging their gums or tooth enamel.

While a toothbrush with colorful lights is fun for kids, it can also distract them from the task at hand, which is to brush their teeth thoroughly. Also, lights can get hot in kids’ hands, which can be uncomfortable for them to hold for a full two minutes.

When picking out a kids electric toothbrush, look for a model that has a simple design with few buttons to reduce the chance of accidentally pressing them while brushing. The Philips Sonicare for Kids, for example, has a large power button near the top and LED that indicates when it’s time to charge, and another button that toggles between brushing modes. The Low mode vibrates the brush at a lower intensity, while the High mode is intended for older children. This brush also includes a removable panel that makes it easier to clean and an included charging cradle that doubles as a travel case. A replacement brush head is also included.