The toothbrush as we know it today was not invented until 1938; and it wasn’t until the 1960s that electric toothbrushes hit the dentistry market in the US. Today, these are two options to keep our teeth clean in our dental hygiene routine. But are electric toothbrushes really that much better for our dental care? Are they right for your child?

Here are some facts Pediatric Dental Group thinks every parent should know, approved by the Hawaiian dentist for kids.

• Studies show that electric toothbrushes may do a better job of cleaning your mouth and removing plaque and gingivitis.
• Electric toothbrushes are modeled after how we use our hands’ motion to power through brushing our teeth. They rotate approximately 3,000-7,500 motions a minute.
• Electric toothbrushes are easier to maneuver around your teeth than the traditional manual toothbrush because of its smaller, rotating (oscillating) head.
• Many come with a built-in timer for about two minutes, which is perfect to keep teeth in check longer.
• If a child never brushes their teeth because they don’t want to, electric toothbrushes can make brushing their teeth fun. It’s less work (and it tickles their teeth!).
• Costs for electric toothbrushes can vary. For professional grade ones, you need charging stations. But battery-powered ones can cost as little as $5.

Next, discuss with your dentist if an electric toothbrush is right for your or your child. For more information about seeing pediatric dentists at Pediatric Dental Group, visit their website or schedule an appointment today by calling (808) 593-8828 for the Honolulu office or (808) 245-2131 for the Lihue office.