Electric toothbrushes for children have many benefits. Thanks to the bright design and ease of use, the child gets used to brushing his teeth regularly, this process turns into an exciting activity. Experts also note that the sound of the motor further reduces fear of dental instruments. The rating of the best electric toothbrushes for children of 2021 will help you choose the right device for children’s teeth.
At what age can a child brush his teeth with an electric brush?
Although today manufacturers produce electric brushes with soft bristles even for one-year-old babies, most dentists agree that the optimal age for a child to start using an electric toothbrush is three years.
In this article
- At what age can a child brush his teeth with an electric brush?
- The benefits of using an electric toothbrush for children
- How to choose a brush for three-year-olds?
- Selecting an electric brush for a child 6-12 years old
- Choosing a toothbrush for a teenager
- Teach your child to brush their teeth properly
At an earlier age, it is better to brush your teeth with a regular manual brush, since an electric one affects the teeth more intensely and can harm children’s fragile enamel and delicate gums. In some cases, dentists recommend using an electric brush no earlier than the child reaches 5 full years of age. This recommendation may be related to the individual characteristics of teeth and gums. The safest option is to discuss this issue with a professional dentist before purchasing an electric toothbrush for your child.
Choosing a brush according to age
Age from 1.5 to 3 years
To begin with, you should purchase a manual toothbrush with ultra-soft bristles that is appropriate for your age. It’s better to choose a model with a picture or pen in the shape of an animal or a favorite cartoon character so that the item evokes sympathy. Make sure that the child does not chew it, but rather brushes his teeth - otherwise it will be problematic to teach him proper hygiene.
Age from 3 to 7 years
When your child turns three years old, you can try offering him an electrical sample. The advantage is that such brushes have great opportunities for interaction, which means kids who did not like conventional devices may become interested in the new product. For children aged 3 to 6-7 years, dentists recommend choosing an electric brush with the softest bristles; you can use it in turn with a regular one (but also soft). Preschoolers must use an electrical device exclusively under the supervision of their parents.
Age from 8 to 13 years
When your child turns 8 years old, you can purchase a brush head of the same brand as his regular children's brush, but for sensitive teeth. It is slightly stiffer than directly on devices for very young children, but at the same time much softer than on adult models. Such a purchase can serve as a good option for a changing bite until the time comes to switch to a device with standard bristles.
Ages 13 years and older
Teenagers over 13 years of age can use electric brushes with medium-hard bristles. Of course, choosing an oral hygiene product is an individual matter, so you should buy it only after consulting with a dentist and assessing the condition of the enamel. If the doctor says that it is too early to switch to medium bristle hardness, then continue to purchase attachments for sensitive teeth.
The benefits of using an electric toothbrush for children
An electric toothbrush has several benefits for cleaning children's teeth.
- Effectively removes plaque.
Electric brushes have an intensive effect on dirt, remove even complex plaque, and cope better than usual with the grooves of children’s teeth, interdental spaces and other hard-to-reach areas. Thanks to high-quality removal of dental plaque, the risk of developing caries is reduced several times.
- Easy to use.
Essentially, the electric brush itself does the job of cleaning your teeth due to the movement of the cleaning head and a timer that tracks the duration of the procedure. Children aged three years old are helped by their parents to brush their teeth; a child aged 8 years and older can easily cope with this task independently.
- Enjoy brushing your teeth.
It's no secret that many children (whether they are 5, 7 or 9 years old) brush their teeth with a regular brush without much enthusiasm. If they can avoid the procedure, they will gladly take advantage of this opportunity or try to complete the cleaning as quickly as possible. It has been observed that an electric toothbrush, at least 5 and 8 years old, motivates children to thoroughly brush their teeth every day. Children enjoy using it twice a day, while maintaining the required cleaning time. Most likely, this is due to the fact that a modern child at 5, 8 and 11 years old is attracted to technological gadgets. An electric toothbrush is just such a device. In addition, manufacturers produce children's models of brushes in bright designs.
The body is usually decorated with images of your favorite cartoon characters, and you can turn on the backlight - all this adds an element of play to a boring oral care routine and helps reinforce a healthy habit. Thus, an electric children's toothbrush is an excellent solution for children of different ages. Dentists note that children who regularly use such brushes are less likely to have caries, dark plaque does not form along the edges of the gums, and such children are not afraid of dentists.
How to choose a brush for three-year-olds?
- Look at the labeling: usually manufacturers indicate what age the model is designed for.
- Let your child choose a brush with a princess, a robot or the hero he likes.
- Consider your child's choice, but remember that brightness and design are not the main indicators of a good brush. Be sure to look at functionality and safety.
- The bristles should be ultra-soft and short so as not to injure the delicate teeth of babies.
- An electric toothbrush for a child 5 years and younger should fit comfortably in a small child's hand, so pay attention to the thickness and anti-slip properties of the handle, as well as the overall weight of the device. The lighter, the more convenient it is for the child to use it.
- Children love it when cleaning turns into an interesting adventure. Models with LED backlighting always cause great delight.
For children under 5 years old, models such as CS Medica SonicPulsar CS-462, Oral-B Vitality Kids, Philips Sonicare For Kids are suitable.
The best electric brushes for children
Below are models that are recommended by dentists and parents according to numerous reviews.
Oral-B Stages Power – from 3 years
A worthy representative of the family of classic brushes for ages from 3 years. Available in a set with a stand and a single round nozzle (but replaceable). Cleans in standard mode and makes up to 7600 movements per minute. It takes energy from the battery, which provides about 30 minutes of continuous operation. There is a timer and bristle wear indicator. The device has an original design, for example, in the style of the cult film “Star Wars”, “Cars” or with princesses. This gadget will appeal to both boys and girls.
The downside is that there is no pressure sensor and the attachments for changing are quite expensive (about 300-400 rubles apiece). The best price is 1100 rubles. Average – 1500 rubles.
Philips Sonicare For Kids – from 3 years
Sound model for children from 7 years old (but can also be used from 3 years old, you just need to choose an ultra-soft nozzle). The set includes a storage stand and two elongated attachments designed for different ages - from three years and from seven years. Each operates in two modes – standard and delicate. Operates1 at a maximum speed of up to 31 thousand pulsations per minute.
The device is powered by a built-in battery. It has a maximum range of functions: the option of gradually getting used to the device, a charge indicator, a timer and a pressure sensor on the tooth. The device communicates with an application on a smartphone via Bluetooth. Thanks to this, the child gets the opportunity to learn how to brush their teeth in a playful way, following the advice of a virtual character. The application has a motivation system: the child receives encouragement for all successes. Thus, the device turns the procedure into an exciting quest. The device comes complete with eight colored stickers for the handle, which depict funny animals. Exactly what was described above - positive emotions create the right mood.
The downside is that the cost is quite high. The best price is 5190 rubles.
CS Medica SonicPulsar Junior – from 5 years
An affordable and high-quality sonic brush for children over 5 years old. The body is complemented by a rubberized handle for the convenience of the small owner. Comes in a set with two elongated nozzles, equipped with bright LED lighting. Together with the beautiful color of the hand, it creates a mood and attracts the child’s attention. It operates in standard mode and produces up to 16 thousand pulsations per minute. Operates on a battery, the charge of which lasts for up to five months. There is a timer to control the cleaning time. After two minutes of operation, the device turns off automatically.
The downside is that there is no pressure sensor or bristle wear indicator. The best price is 800 rubles.
Oral-B Junior – from 6 years of age
A classic, high-quality electric brush for a 6-year-old child. Comes with a storage stand and a single round shaped head. Cleans in standard mode. Powered by a battery and charged from the mains. The power source energy lasts up to 10 days. There are charge level and bristle wear indicators, as well as a timer.
The downside is that there is no pressure sensor. The best price is 2000 rubles.
Selecting an electric brush for a child 6-12 years old
At this age, children still pay attention to bright designs and choose brushes with cartoon characters. To get kids interested in brushing their teeth and make this process as fun as possible, some manufacturers produce special mobile applications. For example, the Sonicare For Kids brush from Philips connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth, and an educational application with a funny character teaches you how to brush your teeth correctly. If the child has completed all the tasks of the virtual mentor perfectly, he receives a reward.
- What other requirements should a brush for primary and secondary schoolchildren meet:
- Soft bristles that take age into account.
- The pulsation frequency of the bristles is from 16,000 movements per minute.
- The presence of a built-in timer that will tell the child when to move to another area of the jaw or complete cleaning.
- Possibility of replacing nozzles.
An example of good electric brushes for children 6-12 years old are the CS Medica CS-562 Junior, Oral-B Junior models.
Rating of the TOP 7 best children's electric toothbrushes
In this TOP we have collected some of the highest quality electrical devices that guarantee positive results when brushing children's teeth. So, we present to your attention the following models:
- Oral-B Genius 9000;
- Oral-B Pro 500 CrossAction;
- Philips Sonicare CleanCare+ HX3212/03;
- Hapica Ultra-fine;
- Emmi-dent 6 Professional;
- Donfeel HSD 0-08;
- CS Medica CS-562 Junior.
Let's take a closer look at the presented list of products.
Oral-B Genius 9000
This device includes 6 functions: teeth whitening, daily use, delicate cleaning, thorough cleaning, and an indicator that shows the charge and how worn the bristles are. The kit also includes 4 attachments, a timer, a cosmetic bag for travel, and the brush is equipped with a built-in Bluetooth device that connects to the Oral Bee program recorded on your phone. Suitable for both adults and children from 3 years old.
Pulsating movements | 48,000 rpm |
Operating modes | 4 |
Cleaning timer | 2 minutes |
Nozzles | 4 things |
Age category | from 3 years |
Price tag: from 12,000 to 14,600 rubles.
electric toothbrush Oral-B Genius 9000
pros
- suitable for children and adults;
- does not require additional charging for a whole week;
- There is a timer for changing the cleaning area.
Minuses
- not small weight (126 g);
- a large number of pulsating movements (48,000 per minute) can damage the enamel of a child’s teeth.
A multifunctional brush that fully justifies its expensive price. A large number of interchangeable modes and attachments: one such device can be used by the whole family. The child is intended for a sensitive mode, it spares the gums and thin tooth enamel. Good device, I recommend it.
Oral-B Pro 500 CrossAction
This model differs from analogues in its very affordable price and high quality functionality. The kit includes a whitening nozzle, absolutely safe for children's tooth enamel; a timer that tells you about a change of position every 30 seconds; a sensor indicating the intensity of pressure of the brush on the teeth and an indicator showing the level of abrasion of the bristles. 8,000 rotational movements and 20,000 translational movements will competently and delicately clean your baby's teeth.
Cleaning timer | 30 sec |
Nozzles | 1 PC |
Age category | from 7 years old |
Pulsating movements | 20000 per minute |
Operating modes | 1 |
Price: from 2500 to 3000 rubles.
electric toothbrush Oral-B Pro 500 CrossAction
pros
- high-quality cleansing;
- whitening effect;
- equipping the model with rechargeable batteries;
- a sensor that signals the intensity of pressure of the brush on the teeth.
Minuses
- The kit includes only one nozzle and one cleaning mode (whitening).
The child is already accustomed to using this toothbrush independently. After it, you can see the effect of whiteness and cleaned interdental spaces. Pleasant breath smell, and a very reasonable price. Due to the large number of oscillatory movements, we alternate monthly with an electric brush with a regular one. The benefit should not turn into a negative result. Overall, I'm happy with absolutely everything. Thank you, I recommend it.
Philips Sonicare CleanCare+ HX3212/03
The presented device is a sound type of oral cavity cleansing. It is equipped with the latest technology patented: a jet stream of water cleanses the gums and interdental spaces of the oral cavity as much as possible. This brush also has an Easystart function, it regulates the intensity of tooth brushing, and increases every day. That is, changing a regular brush to an electric one is almost invisible. Protects children's teeth and does not injure gums.
Pulsating movements | 31000 per minute |
Cleaning timer | 30 sec |
Nozzles | 1 PC |
Age category | 3+ |
Operating modes | 1 |
Cost: from 2490 to 3000 rubles.
electric toothbrush Philips Sonicare CleanCare+ HX3212/03
pros
- gentle cleansing of teeth, gums, tongue;
- gradual increase in cleaning intensity.
Minuses
- one operating mode (brushing teeth).
The breadth of modes is not as important as the quality of brush cleansing. This device copes 100% with its main responsibilities, cleans teeth as much as possible, massages gums, and in my opinion, is the best option for a child.
Hapica Ultra-fine
An excellent model, ideal for sore gums. Like the previous one, it has a sound type. A stream of water not only cleanses the enamel, but also perfectly massages the gums and tongue, muffling and eliminating various inflammations. Plus, the brush with its special bristles ideally prevents gingivitis, caries and periodontitis. The device is enclosed in a waterproof housing made of plastic. Guarantee of a healthy oral cavity and its prevention.
Age category | 10+ |
Operating modes | 1 |
Pulsating movements | 7000 per minute |
Cleaning timer | 30 sec |
Nozzles | 1 PC |
Price tag: from 890 to 1650 rubles.
electric toothbrush Hapica Ultra-fine
pros
- prevention of caries and other oral diseases;
- qualitatively cleans the interdental space;
- waterproof housing;
- light weight (58 g).
Minuses
- not detected.
An excellent brush that really gets rid of not only plaque, but also caries (as happened in our case). The gentle penetration of the bristles does not harm the enamel and gums; on the contrary, it massages them and relieves pain, bleeding and redness. Thanks to the manufacturer!
Emmi-dent 6 Professional
A model containing absolutely the latest ultrasound technology. Now you don’t need to brush your teeth with bristles as before, you just need to bring the brush to your teeth. This method in one minute cleans all hard-to-reach places that are closed even to dental floss. The presented model is equipped with a single mode, a special toothpaste and several additional attachments.
Nozzles | 3 pcs |
Ripple | 84000 min |
Age | 2+ |
Operating modes | 1 |
Cleaning timer | 30 sec |
Price: from 12,300 to 13,500 rubles.
electric toothbrush Emmi-dent 6 Professional
pros
- eliminates friction of the brush on tooth enamel;
- eliminates gum inflammation and bleeding;
- ideal for implants, crowns and braces;
- silent.
Minuses
- not detected.
These are new technologies! Cleans perfectly, and most importantly, does not harm teeth in the first years of life without the bristles touching them. Removes plaque and food debris between teeth well. The child likes it, which means I’m happy too. High quality brush, I recommend it.
Donfeel HSD 0-08
The presented model has ultrasonic cleaning technology. Its set includes 2 nozzles: one of medium hardness, the other soft, and the device is also equipped with a spatula that ensures tongue hygiene. This device is sold together with a carrying case, inside it we can see a UV lamp that kills 99.9% of bacteria from the bristles of the toothbrush. An excellent device that carefully and efficiently cleans children's enamel.
Age | from 10 years |
Operating modes | 3 |
Cleaning timer | 30 sec |
Nozzles | 3 pcs |
Ripple | 42000 rpm |
Price: from 4450 to 6330 rubles.
electric toothbrush Donfeel HSD 0-08
pros
- environmental safety of the brush;
- The device is equipped with a quick cleaning technique (1 minute);
- case with UV lamp.
Minuses
- not detected.
Our whole family uses this device. The child is already accustomed to brushing her teeth. Effectively cleans tooth enamel, massages gums, and prevents bleeding. After using the presented model, you feel fresh breath throughout the afternoon. We are happy with our choice and recommend it to everyone.
CS Medica CS-562 Junior
Sonic type of enamel cleansing. Brushing your teeth will be a fun activity for your baby, as the light turns on during brushing and turns off after the teeth are cleaned. Equipped with a timer that goes off after 2 minutes of work done. The brush has a rubberized body, providing maximum ease of use. It spares tooth enamel and gums, preventing bleeding and pain.
Nozzles | 2 pcs |
Ripple | 16000 rpm |
Age | from 1 to 5 years |
Operating modes | 1 |
Cleaning timer | 2 minutes |
Price tag: from 950 to 1300 rubles.
electric toothbrush CS Medica CS-562 Junior
pros
- light weight (27 g);
- rubberized body;
- ultra-soft bristles that do not cause gum irritation;
- bright LED backlight.
Minuses
- not detected.
An excellent brush that does not damage the child’s thin enamel and gums. It works great for daily use and leaves a pleasant scent for a long time afterwards. I'm happy with the purchase, I recommend it.
Choosing a toothbrush for a teenager
At the age of 13-17 years, children can already use adult toothbrushes, unless otherwise recommended by the dentist. But some manufacturers produce special models for teenagers. A striking example is Oral-B TEEN:
- It is compatible with a large number of interchangeable attachments. You can also choose an attachment for sensitive teeth and gums.
- Removes more plaque than a regular brush and has a whitening effect.
- A pressure sensor is provided to protect the gums. It automatically reduces the speed and prevents you from pressing too hard on the brush.
- The two-minute timer ensures the correct, two-minute brushing time.
- A special mobile application allows you to track cleaning performance in real time. This helps to interest teenagers and motivate them to take regular and proper dental care.
- The brush holds a charge for up to two weeks.
Types of electric brushes: which ones are suitable for children
The classification of dental care devices is common to everyone – both children and adults. However, not every gadget is suitable for a baby. Therefore, we will further consider those options that are approved for use in children.
Read on the topic: how to choose a good electric toothbrush for an adult - all types of popular devices in one detailed material.
- Classic model. The operation of a standard (or classic) device is based on the action of a miniature motor that drives the brush head. The bristles move back and forth or in a circle (and back) at a given speed, cleaning out food debris and plaque.
- Sound type. These models have a built-in generator, thanks to which the brush head emits high-frequency sound vibrations. They destroy deposits on enamel with greater efficiency and promote better formation of foam from toothpaste, which washes out even the smallest impurities well. Children can use such a brush, but under the supervision of adults and always under the supervision of a doctor - it is important to understand that sound waves do not cause harm.
- Ultrasonic type. The head of such a brush does not just move, the device produces ultrasonic waves that destroy dirt and germs. The frequency of ultrasound is about 40-50 thousand vibrations per minute. Therefore, such models are contraindicated for children, since the effect of ultrasound is detrimental to fragile enamel; it quickly destroys areas with weak mineralization.
Teach your child to brush their teeth properly
It’s not enough to buy your child an electric toothbrush; you need to teach them how to use it correctly.
- Read the instructions carefully.
- Use a small pea-sized amount of fluoride paste.
- During brushing, the brush is positioned at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
- Clean your teeth, moving from right to left, first along the upper ones, then along the lower ones. Brush first the outer, then the inner, and then the chewing surface of your teeth.
- The brush should be moved along the teeth slowly, without pressing too hard and without missing any areas.
Teach your child to brush his teeth correctly, and he will visit the dentist only for preventive purposes.