“What type of toothbrush is best for my child?” is a question we receive often throughout all pediatric age groups.

The truth is, in the pediatric population, studies show that one does not work better than the other and here’s why.

-Manual toothbrushes are just as effective as electric toothbrushes. Some children may favor a manual toothbrush if they do not like the vibrations or powered motion of the electric toothbrush, stopping the brushing time before the recommended 2 minutes.

However, other children may find the electric toothbrushes to be a lot of fun.

-Some electric toothbrushes may play music, or light up, boosting a child’s interest, thus encouraging them to brush longer. So in short, the best toothbrush for your child is whatever one they are mostly likely to use. 

But, always remember, in either type of toothbrush, technique is key.  It is important to brush for your child until they develop the proper fine motor skills to angle the toothbrush in a way that will remove the plaque sufficiently from all surfaces of every tooth in the mouth.