From this article you will learn:
- how to choose an electric brush for children 3, 5 and 7 years old,
- independent video review of models,
- analysis of prices for brushes and replacement heads (for 2022).
The article was written by a dentist with more than 19 years of experience.
An electric toothbrush for children can be used as early as 3 years of age. In younger children, it helps form the habit of regular oral hygiene thanks to the playful moments that can be introduced into brushing their teeth with such a brush.
The most popular electric brush for children is produced under the Oral-B brand by Braun (Germany). The Oral Bi children's brush is available in 3 versions, differing from each other not only in visual design, but also in some options. Brushes can be designed either in the style of Disney characters, or the cartoons “Star Wars” or “Frozen”.
Children's electric toothbrush –
Models of Oral-B electric toothbrushes for children:
- Oral-B Mickey KIDS,
- Oral-B Stages Power " Starwars " (Star Wars),
- Oral-B Stages Power " Frozen "
What is a silicone toothbrush?
For your information! Silicone toothbrushes are an innovative development that allows you to brush your teeth with increased comfort.
The products have a long service life, are not afraid of high temperatures, and do not deform over time.
The material from which such cleaning devices are made is thermoplastic polyurethane.
Implants are made from it.
Absolutely safe for health .
The design differs somewhat among different manufacturers: in some models the bristles are the same height and size, in others there is a gradation in thickness and height.
Children's brush Oral B: characteristics of models
Before you buy a children's electric toothbrush, first evaluate the characteristics of different models. This will allow you to make the right decision about which type of brush will best motivate your child to brush their teeth regularly.
Oral-B Mickey KIDS
The Oral-B Mickey KIDS children's electric brush (may be called Oral-B Stages Power Mickey) has a bright color and an attractive design for young children. This brush is recommended for children from 3 years old, and its main feature is the presence of a musical timer of 16 melodies from Disney cartoons.
The Oral-B Mickey KIDS children's toothbrush has 1 “Sensitive Cleaning” mode. In this mode, the head of the replaceable nozzle makes 5600 reciprocating rotation movements per minute, i.e. 2D cleaning technology is used (without pulsating movements). The bristles of the replaceable head are made especially thin and soft so as not to injure the still too poorly mineralized enamel of children's teeth.
Key Benefits –
- has a built-in music timer that plays a new melody every minute, motivating the child to brush his teeth for the prescribed 2 minutes,
- 5600 reciprocating movements per minute.
Contents and price – electric rechargeable toothbrush (1 pc), 1 replaceable brush head, 1 compact charger, instruction manual, warranty card (made in Germany). Price from 1200 to 1900 rubles.
Oral-B Stages Power “Starwars” –
The Oral-B Stages Power "Starwars" children's brush has an image of the Star Wars cartoon characters on its surface. Recommended for children from 3 years of age, and can be used in children up to 12 years of age. This model also uses 2D cleaning technology (the brush head makes 7000 reciprocating movements per minute). The replacement head also has very soft, thin bristles that do not damage the enamel of children's teeth. The timer, unlike the previous model, is not in the form of a melody, but in the form of a short-term vibration that appears after 2 minutes.
Key Benefits –
- "Disney MagicTimer" app from Oral-B,
- 7000 reciprocating movements per minute.
The Disney MagicTimer application allows you to create a personalized profile on your child’s smartphone with their favorite Disney characters. The application features a visual game timer (to motivate you to brush your teeth for the prescribed 2 minutes), as well as a whole system of rewards for regular brushing of your teeth and visits to the dentist. The game timer works in such a way that the longer and more often a child brushes his teeth, the more interesting pictures he will see with his favorite Disney characters.
Contents and price – 1 rechargeable electric toothbrush, 1 replaceable head for children StarWars, 1 charger, instruction manual, warranty card (made in Germany). Price from 1200 to 1900 rubles.
Oral-B Stages Power “Frozen” –
The Oral-B Stages Power “Frozen” children's brush differs from the previous model only in that it has an image of the cartoon characters “Frozen” on its surface. All other characteristics and equipment are completely identical. Timer in the form of vibration, triggered after 2 minutes. Recommended for children from 3 years of age, and no older than 12 years.
Key Benefits –
- "Disney MagicTimer" app from Oral-B,
- 7000 reciprocating movements per minute.
Video review of the “Starwars” and “Frozen” models –
Advantages
The product is soft, long, with a comfortable handle .
Note! Bristles of different lengths thoroughly destroy plaque without damaging the enamel and provide soft, delicate cleaning.
On the back of the product there is a grooved surface for cleaning the tongue.
Models are sold in which the head with bristles can be removed and replaced with another one sold as a set.
It is very practical and functional.
Systematic use of a silicone cleaning device helps prevent the development of the inflammatory process and reduces bleeding.
Indications for use
The model with silicone bristles is an excellent choice for those with increased tooth sensitivity and gum disease.
Keep in mind! The product is recommended for use when:
- gingivitis;
- periodontitis;
- periodontal disease;
In combination with a paste for sensitive teeth, doctors recommend using this device during restorative therapy after whitening .
Finger for children and its features
It is worth noting! Proper oral care from childhood can prevent many diseases in adulthood.
Devices for children should effectively remove plaque, while being gentle so as not to injure the gums.
The silicone finger brush
is very easy to use, washes well , is made of environmentally friendly material, does not absorb odors, and is safe to use.
Instructions for use are simple: an adult needs to put the brush on his finger and massage the baby’s teeth.
It is recommended to use this device for cleaning from six months.
Features of the product for children:
- soft material;
- presence of a massage surface;
- gentle care for first teeth
Stay up to date! Babies experience discomfort during the appearance of their first teeth, the gums swell, pain and itching appear.
The silicone model is used as a teether . Parents can massage the inflamed areas, thereby relieving unpleasant symptoms.
Finger dental products have advantages over standard models.
They act more carefully , which is very important for the child.
Finger products allow you to brush your teeth in the most difficult to reach places .
The product not only helps get rid of plaque , but also stimulates the gums, improving blood circulation .
Recommendations for choosing a children's electric brush
The following points distinguish a children's electric brush from an adult one.
- Its handle is shorter, thicker and lighter, the surface of the body is rubberized and adapted to a child’s hand.
- The brush works less intensely, at low speed.
- The head of the nozzle is smaller and the bristles are softer.
- The brush has a bright design, often in the form of cartoon characters.
Ergonomics
Brushes from 2 to 3 years
Parents brush children's teeth up to 2 years of age. After this age, you can gradually accustom your baby to independent hygiene in a playful way. For this age, soft brushes with a small head and a long handle are suitable.
CS Medica CS-561 Kids (from 1 to 5 years) Yellow
Mega Ten Kids Sonic Kitten
Hapica Baby DBB-1Y (from 1 to 6 years)
Brushes from 3 to 7 years
Oral care for children 3–7 years old occurs together with their parents. The role of parents is to control and help. It is important to teach your child to spit the toothpaste and rinse his mouth.
Electric brushes from 3 years of age are designed taking into account the anatomical structure of the hand and the grip characteristics of a child’s hand. The handle is rubberized so it doesn't slip. Brushes for children under 7 years old have a smaller head.
Philips Sonicare For Kids HX6322/04 (HX6392/02)
Revyline RL 020 Kids Yellow
Xiaomi Soocas Kids C1
Brushes after 7 years
Children of primary school age (7–10 years old) already brush their teeth on their own, but parents must constantly maintain motivation, monitor the brushing process and, if necessary, complete it efficiently.
Brushes for this age also have a rubberized handle, but their head is already a standard size, like an adult brush. From the age of 11–12 you can switch to a full-fledged adult brush.
Oral-B Pro 400 Junior D16 (from 6 years old)
CS Medica CS-562 Junior (from 5 years old)
Oral-B Pro 2 Junior Sensi Star Wars D501.513.2
Work intensity
The enamel of baby teeth is more sensitive and delicate than the enamel of permanent teeth, so children's brushes work at a more delicate speed compared to adults.
While brushing, your child may get carried away and put too much pressure on the teeth and gums with the brush. Therefore, for children from 1 to 3 years old, as a rule, only one, delicate cleaning mode is provided. Brushes for older children have 2 modes - for different ages: delicate cleaning from 3-4 to 7 years and standard cleaning after 7 years.
Nozzle and bristles
The toothbrush head should be age appropriate. The brush head should ideally not cover more than two teeth. Brush head size: for babies - up to 1 cm, for preschoolers - up to 1.35 cm, for schoolchildren - up to 1.7 cm.
The stiffness of the bristles for a baby brush should be extra soft. After 7 years, you can switch to brushes with medium-hard bristles.
A children's electric brush may come with additional attachments for later ages.
Timer
This is an important function that allows you to maintain cleaning time, although it does not affect the choice of brush, because any model has it. To make it easier for your child to navigate the cleaning time, some models have a music timer. In other models, the timer may be designed differently - it may simply emit a signal or vibrate.
Power type
Children's electric brushes are battery-powered or rechargeable. Battery-powered brushes have a minimum speed of movement of the bristles and, as a rule, 1 cleaning mode. Cordless brushes are more powerful, more functional and have a battery charge indicator.
Design
It is important for a child to have something of his own, and an electric brush can become his first gadget. That is why the child should like the brush - it should look interesting and bright.
Oral-B toothbrushes in the Kids, Vitality Kids, Stages and Pro series include characters from Frozen, Cars, Mickey Mouse, and Star Wars.
Philips Sonicare For Kids comes with a set of 8 reusable stickers along with the brush. They will allow the child to change the design of the toothbrush at his own discretion.
An interesting solution is Mega Ten Kids Sonic curly brushes. They are made in the shape of animals and are already a toy in themselves.
Review of popular models
You can purchase a silicone cleaning device at a pharmacy or order it from an online store.
For your information! The second option is less reliable, since the stated picture may differ from reality.
Manufacturers produce products of varying degrees of rigidity. Models with removable head are sold.
Faberlic
medium-hard product provides reliable and effective tooth protection.
The device does not scratch the enamel and gently massages the gums .
Unlike standard analogues, bacteria do not accumulate on Faberlic . Of all the manufacturers, this is the cheapest option.
The product holds its shape well, the bristles do not break, fall out or move apart. The brush is strong and durable.
You should know! Removes plaque more effectively than regular. Due to some rigidity, you should make gentle massaging movements near the gums to avoid injury.
The advantages of the product are:
- low price;
- functionality;
- excellent cleaning qualities;
- durability;
- reliability;
- ease of use.
It may seem a little harsh , so for those who suffer from bleeding gums, it is better to choose a gentle option or use a silicone brush not every day.
Namei
Reference! The set includes 6 brushes of different lengths: 2 short (M) and 4 long (L).
They all differ in degree of rigidity . The difference between M and L means the head size. The bristles are arranged in several rows and vary in thickness. It’s thicker at the bottom, almost like needles at the top.
The manufacturer offers products with handles of different designs. It does not carry any functional load.
The handle is hard, does not bend well, there are no rubber inserts.
This makes it difficult to brush teeth in hard-to-reach places.
Despite the fact that the manufacturer writes about varying degrees of hardness, all brushes clean the surface of the teeth quite roughly.
to use them daily if you have any problems with the oral cavity .
Silicone is hard, does not bend well, and is similar in quality to plastic.
Keep in mind! If you run your finger, the surface is soft, but there is a grinding sensation when you clean it.
User opinions about this model are contradictory.
Many are inclined to believe that the device is inconvenient to use due to the handle and rather aggressive impact .
At the same time,
its cleaning properties are quite good .
BABY TEAM
The product with a massage effect is designed specifically for babies who are cutting their first teeth .
The different cleaning surface allows you to use the device for its intended purpose and as a teether.
The massager is very functional, easy and quick to put on your finger.
According to parents, children perceive the process of brushing their teeth well.
Remember! If the brush is used for teething, then apply an anesthetic gel to the cleaning surface and rub in.
Soft bristles allow you to have a strong impact on your gums without damaging them .
Jack N' Jill
The brush from this manufacturer is made from medical grade silicone .
This material is 100% safe and environmentally friendly.
The product is suitable for brushing teeth from a very early age .
The soft bristles are gentle on tiny baby teeth and still clean well.
Suitable for babies who do not yet have back teeth. The main quality of a brush is its safety.
A special limiter prevents the child from getting injured.
Important! There are certain recommendations for use:
- The non-toxic material is completely harmless, even if swallowed.
- The product can be disinfected and sterilized.
You should brush your teeth only in the presence of an adult.
Brushes are an excellent alternative to conventional products.
With its help you can easily accustom your baby to oral hygiene.
How does a brush motivate you to brush your teeth?
From 2–3 years old, the child begins to brush his teeth under the supervision of his parents, and from 4 years old he begins to brush his teeth independently. It is at this age that it is important to instill a healthy habit of brushing your teeth 2 times a day and brushing them correctly.
The surest way to get your child used to brushing their teeth every day is to create interest. Various interactive functions in modern electric brushes will help with this.
LED lights
Perhaps this is the first special effect that a child will appreciate. CS Medica brushes from 1 year and Mega Ten Kids Sonic from 3 years old have LED backlighting of the nozzle, which makes brushing your teeth interesting and exciting.
Smart cleaning via app
The most advanced in terms of interactivity are Philips Sonicare For Kids and Oral-B brushes.
At Philips, the brush is synchronized with a training application on a smartphone or tablet. First, an egg will appear on the screen, which you need to lightly tap with your finger. After this, a cute furry animal named Sparkly will hatch from the egg. Task: take care of and care for Sparkly. The cleaning process resembles a cartoon and is accompanied by cheerful music. The application also has a cleaning calendar and a “My Achievements” section. This way the baby is 100% involved in the cleaning process.
For Oral-B children's brushes there is a Magic Timer application with Disney characters. The timer does not synchronize with the brush, but it will teach your baby to brush for at least 2 minutes through an exciting game.
Reviews
Below are some customer reviews. If you have something to say, leave your feedback in the comments below the article, it will be useful to our readers.
Anna Chizhova, Moscow.
I use a Jack N' Jill toothbrush to brush my child's teeth. Very pleased. The main thing is that the product is safe for the baby.
I periodically scald the product with boiling water to avoid unnecessary problems, although it is known that bacteria do not live in silicone.
The thing is very functional. I recommend it to all parents.
Maxim Volkov, Saratov.
I've never heard of silicone brushes before, I've always used regular ones.
For the sake of experiment, I decided to purchase this miracle remedy at the pharmacy. The device cleans in the same way as a regular one. I didn't notice any difference.
In addition, the model is quite expensive compared to its conventional counterpart. I advise you not to waste your money.
Valentina Seregina, Tver.
The silicone brush is a product that was developed exclusively for people with problem gums.
You need to carefully choose a model, pay attention to the quality of the bristles and their hardness.
Silicone devices clean the surface of teeth well, but may not be suitable due to their overly aggressive action.
Anna Popova, Barnaul.
Silicone brushes are certainly safer; bacteria do not accumulate on them. If a person does not have problems with teeth and gums, it is better to give preference to conventional models.
It is important to purchase a quality product, even taking into account its expensive cost. The products are very durable, do not deform, and heads can be changed.
The determining factor is the degree of softness of the bristles. If it is hard, you can cause even more harm to yourself.
Choice of brush and child’s age –
According to the manufacturer's recommendations, all these brushes can be used by children from 3 to 9 years old. But, because They have slightly different characteristics, but depending on the model, they can still be recommended for children of different ages. For example, if you need an electric toothbrush for children aged 3 years and older, it is better to purchase the Oral-B Mickey KIDS brush, which has a music timer of 16 changing melodies from Disney cartoons.
If you need an electric toothbrush for children aged 7 years and older, it is better to choose Oral-B Stages Power “Starwars” or “Frozen”. You can no longer surprise seven-year-old children with musical timers, and in order to further motivate the child to brush their teeth, a special application for the smartphone “Disney MagicTimer” was developed for these brushes. The application allows you to create an individual profile on your child’s smartphone with their favorite Disney characters, and has a visual game timer with a reward system for regular teeth brushing.
The application works as follows... After scanning the purchased Oral-B Stages Power “Starwars” or “Frozen” toothbrush, the hero on the mobile device will come to life and will gradually reveal various drawings to the child. Those. The longer the child brushes his teeth, the more complete the picture he will see. The more often a child brushes his teeth, the more interesting drawings with characters from his favorite cartoons he will see. In addition, you can monitor the regularity of your child's hygiene through a special calendar.
If you need an electric toothbrush for children from 5 years old, then you need to focus on your child and think about what will be more interesting for him - musical melodies from famous Disney cartoons, or a more advanced application for a smartphone (in the article below you can see how this application works and screenshots for it).
Important: choosing a brush for children over 9 years old
Oral-B is very smart and they don't want your child to use the same brush for too long. Therefore, they recommend children's brush models for children no older than 9 years. Let's figure out what's the catch here... The fact is that the enamel of children's teeth still contains very few minerals (calcium and phosphorus), and the mineralization process itself occurs over a very long period of time.
That is why manufacturers make replaceable heads for children’s brushes with very thin and soft bristles, so as not to injure the “soft” enamel of children’s teeth. Oral-B replacement heads for children's brushes have shortened, very thin bristles with split ends. Such attachments can indeed be used up to 8-9 years of age, but this does not mean at all that when the child turns 9 years old, you should throw away the electric brush.
Oral-B Stages Power “Starwars” or “Frozen” brush models perform 7,000 reciprocating movements per minute. This figure is almost identical to all models of electric toothbrushes for adults. Therefore, when your child turns 8-9 years old, you can simply buy him a replacement Oral-B “Sensitive” head (for sensitive teeth). The bristles of this brush head are slightly stiffer than those of children's brush heads, but much softer than regular brush heads for adults.
Example of Oral-B refills (for children over 3 years old) –
Absolutely all attachments for adult brushes are suitable for children's brushes, and therefore until the child turns 12 years old, you do not need to buy a new electric brush at all. But there is another option - if you have an electric brush for adults with a “gentle cleaning” mode (pulsing movements are turned off in it), then a child over 7 years old can already use your adult brush.
Important: remember that soft-bristled toothbrushes are recommended for children under 12 years of age. Therefore, in the period from 3 to 7 years, it is better to use replaceable heads specifically for children’s brushes, but from 7 to 12 years, it is better to use a replaceable Oral-B “Sensitive” brush head (for sensitive teeth). This attachment will better remove microbial plaque and food debris, but will not injure the weakly mineralized enamel of children's teeth (24stoma.ru).
