At Maplewood Dental Associates, our mission is to help children develop beautiful, healthy smiles that last a lifetime. We're proud to offer a wide range of pediatric dental treatments at our office to help ensure healthy dental development for our patients, but as you probably know, the treatments we provide are only half of what it takes to create a great smile. How your child cares for their teeth at home is just as important to the health of their smile, and that means regular brushing and flossing is paramount. But for many parents, this raises a question: should my child be using an electric toothbrush or a manual toothbrush?
Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes for Kids
The debate between electric and manual toothbrushes feels almost eternal, and truth be told, either option is entirely sufficient to clean the teeth and maintain a healthy smile. But when it comes to children, there actually are some more specific guidance points related to the best kind of toothbrush.
Believe it or not, the British Dental Health Organisation actually advocates electric toothbrushes as a better choice for children than manual brushes. It's important to note that adult electric toothbrushes should never be used by kids younger than 3 years old, but an age-appropriate electric brush may help your child take better care of their teeth than a manual.
So why would electric brushes be better for kids? For one, there's simple novelty value. Electric brushes are more exciting, and this can make kids feel more excited and encouraged to brush their teeth. But on another level, electric brushes are slightly easier to operate and don't require a perfect technique to effectively clean the teeth. This can make them an easier option for kids who are still learning the proper brushing techniques.
Contact Your Maplewood, MN Children's Dentist
If you do opt for an electric toothbrush, make sure you're getting one that's age-appropriate for your child: this means it should have soft-bristles, easy-to-grip handles, and gentler rotary speeds that are easier for kids to handle. Have more questions about picking the right toothbrush for your little one? We're always here to help. Contact us today to learn more about the do's and don’ts of brushing teeth and to clear up any lingering questions you may have. We can't wait to hear from you!