Is it time to switch your child to an electric toothbrush? Because of their effectiveness at removing plaque and other harmful bacteria, they are often an excellent option for young and developing smiles. However, with so many toothbrushes for kids in McKinney, it can be difficult to know when it’s time to upgrade. A pediatric dentist shares three questions you should ask yourself to determine if your child is ready to swap their manual brush for an electric one.
Is My Child Ready for An Electric Toothbrush?
Knowing when or if your child is ready for an electric toothbrush requires asking yourself three different questions:
- Are They Old Enough? – Age is a big factor in determining your child’s readiness for an electric toothbrush. Oftentimes, their minimal dexterity in reaching certain areas of their mouth while cleaning can pose a problem. However, whether you are continuing to assist with their oral hygiene routines, or they are doing it on their own, introducing this new type of brush when they ask may be a good indicator to go ahead and make the switch.
- Are They Fearful? – Is your child easily spooked by certain noises? Do they dislike the feeling of the brush’s vibration inside their mouth? Do they have a sensitive gag reflex? Introducing an electric brush might seem like a good idea but not if your child is afraid of it. Too much pressure to transition away from a manual one may cause them to disengage from brushing altogether.
- Do They Need It? – It’s important to remember that electric toothbrushes are not absolutely necessary, but they are effective in helping young smiles take better care of their teeth. Kids often have a hard time brushing for a full two minutes. An electric device typically comes with a timer, making it much easier for them to brush the appropriate amount of time. It also helps to reach areas of their mouth they may not clean with a manual brush.
Identifying Attributes of a Good Electric Toothbrush
Want to make sure you’re choosing the right brush for your child? Here are a few attributes to consider:
- It effectively removes plaque, which a pediatric dentist in McKinney will be able to tell during regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Its head shape and size are appropriate for small mouths and reaching all areas of the mouth.
- Its bristles are strong enough to hold up for several months (typically at least 3). These are usually found on higher-quality toothbrushes.
- It is rechargeable, allowing for a longer lifespan, and they are safe for kids to use instead of battery-powered ones.
An electric toothbrush can be a game-changer for your little one, so make sure you know when the time is right to help them upgrade to a device that will ensure a healthier, happier smile.
About the Authors
Dr. Justin Chan has been a practicing pediatric dentist since 2012. Earning his dental degree at New York University College of Dentistry, he remains passionate about caring for and helping children of all ages grow and develop smiles that will last a lifetime. Patients who visit Sprout Dentistry for Kids will not only meet Dr. Justin but also Dr. Sage Yoo, a fellow pediatric dentist at the practice. After studying electrical engineering at Purdue University, Dr. Sage went on to earn his doctorate and complete his residency in pediatric dentistry at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. Both he and Dr. Justin offer a variety of comprehensive services to care for the dental needs of all patients who come through their doors. To learn more about our services, visit our website or call (469) 301-3212.