Choosing the right kids toothbrush – electric vs manual – can be confusing for parents. Both options can be effective for maintaining good oral hygiene. Tooth brushing either with an electric toothbrush or manual toothbrush helps physically reduce plaque build up in our mouths. There is evidence revealing that electric toothbrushing may assist with reducing plaque build-up provided that it is used correctly. Thus, electric toothbrushes are generally recommended for adults who have already developed the correct dexterity in toothbrushing appropriately. Establishing good brushing habits early is essential for long-term oral health, especially as children go through key stages like teething and molar eruption.

Children usually will require assistance with their tooth brushing and flossing. As a parent, if you are choosing an electric toothbrush for your child, it is important that you are familiar with how to use the electric toothbrush correctly yourself before teaching your child. Electric toothbrushes can sometimes be used to motivate kids as they can be interesting and interactive. Manual toothbrushes can also help reduce plaque build-up provided children know how to use them correctly i.e. circles around the gum margins not “scrubbing” across your teeth and gums.

kids electric toothbrush demonstration
choosing the right toothbrush for children

Most of the time the best thing to do is ask your child what they would prefer. Some children may find electric toothbrushes appealing, yet others can find it uncomfortable and even scary. When your child finds their favourite toothbrush, they’re more likely to develop good oral hygiene habits that stay with them for life. If you’re entirely unsure, keeping up with your child’s regular dental appointments every six months will allow your child’s dentist to give any feedback on your child’s toothbrushing and technique.

Proper brushing helps prevent early signs of tooth decay in children, which can develop quickly if oral hygiene isn’t consistent. Below you will find a couple of videos that show you the different techniques needed for using an electric toothbrush vs a manual toothbrush for kids.

Still confused on what toothbrush to use for your child?

CONTACT US on 03 9372 8960 to talk to one of our team members who will be happy to assist you in making the right choice for the best toothbrush for children.

child brushing teeth with manual toothbrush
kids dental hygiene brushing tips
paediatric dentist teaching brushing technique

OUR TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING A KIDS TOOTHBRUSH (ELECTRIC vs MANUAL):

1. The most important thing to consider with toothbrushing is not the type of brush used, but the time taken (2 mins!), how often it is occurring (twice a day!), and if the correct technique is used!

2. All rechargeable Oral B electric toothbrushes have internal timers (they pulse when they reach 2 minutes) – so if your child is a quick brusher, this might help extend the brushing time.

3. If choosing to use an electric toothbrush before the age of 8, consider alternating between manual and electric toothbrushes to further allow the manual dexterity to develop with manual brushing.

Teeth Cleaning Kids

OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS!

If you have an electric toothbrush at home, you can purchase a new brush head and allow your child to try it. If they enjoy using it, then you could consider purchasing one for them. If they don’t enjoy it, you can discard the brush head and continue using a manual toothbrush.

It is important to understand what it is that your child does not like about the electric toothbrush. Some children find that it feels ‘too rough’ on their gums, in which case, you can try to switch to a sensitive toothbrush head as it is softer. Some children simply just don’t like the sensation, in that case, it is best to use a manual toothbrush to prevent your child from avoiding brushing all together.

This depends on their age and/or manual dexterity levels. A good indication of appropriate dexterity levels is when they get their pen license at school or when they can tie their shoelaces with their eyes closed. Before this, parental assistance is always recommended.

Absolutely not. The heads of electric toothbrushes are designed to oscillate or vibrate, and are often small and round which is not suitable for manual brushing. If your child has a tendency to do this, always keep a manual toothbrush in the bathroom so they can make the switch.

USEFUL DENTAL RESOURCES AND FURTHER READING

A few articles for some further reading before selecting the best toothbrush for your child:

https://www.colgate.com.au/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/kids-toothbrushes-what-to-buy-for-your-child

https://oralb.com.au/learn/Life-Stages/find-the-right-electric-toothbrush-for-your-child/

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/toothbrushing-children

Thanks to our wonderful Oral Health Therapist, Carlee.
She works at the Essendon clinics in Napier Street and Buckley Street.
If you would like to talk to her or any of our amazing team, about this or any other questions you may have, please contact us on 03 9372 8960.

Carlee