For a parent, it can sometimes be difficult to encourage their child to brush their teeth. Or at least, it doesn't always happen without tears, tantrums or even a resounding "no." However, choosing a toothbrush for his baby is not always easy and there are ways to make brushing your teeth more fun: the electric toothbrushes for children are part of it.
If you are skeptical about offering such equipment to your child, let us introduce you to the benefits of an electric toothbrush for children and its possible contraindications.
Advantages and disadvantages of an electric toothbrush for children
A child's electric toothbrush can really help create good brushing habits. Not only is this type of equipment simple to use, but most importantly, it's fun for the child.
The electric toothbrushes for children recommended by the Union Française pour la Santé Bucco-Dentaire (French Union for Oral Health) are particularly effective in terms of dental health. These brushes remove more plaque from the teeth. 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. Others offer the child the opportunity to listen to music while brushing, or even play games through apps (i.e. My Teeth available for 2 € on the App Store).
Not recommended to learn the tooth brushing movement
However, there is nothing like a manual toothbrush to practice the tooth brushing motion. Pedodontists recommend not skipping steps.
Ideally, the child should learn to handle a manual toothbrush before switching to an electric toothbrush.
An electric toothbrush for children from what age?
If you are considering brushing your child's teeth with an electric toothbrush, be sure to wait until at least age 3. It's not recommended to use electric toothbrushes before that age. This means that there are no "first age" electric toothbrushes, as they are not approved.
It is best to be well-informed to know which toothbrush to choose for baby.
The characteristics of a good toothbrush for children
Although an electric toothbrush may not be of particular interest to young children, once they are old enough to use one, it is possible to jump in.
Among the criteria to consider when choosing an electric toothbrush for children:
- Ergonomics: a small head, soft hair, thick handle,
- Connectivity: LED light, timer, music player to keep the child busy,
- Price: With prices ranging from €20 to €50, most electric toothbrushes for children are affordable.
In conclusion, an electric toothbrush cleans the child's teeth better and protects them more effectively against cavities.
Nevertheless, it is important to choose a durable material (a minimum 2-year manufacturer's warranty is recommended). Finally, this type of product is not interesting if your child is under 3 years old.
Discover our article dedicated to toothbrushes for children.
