Best Electric Toothbrushes for Kids: A Complete Guide

Looking for the right electric toothbrush for your child? We've analyzed four of the top-performing models on the market for you.

Specially designed for little mouths from age 3 and up, we're comparing the Philips Sonicare for Kids, the Oral-B Kids, the humm by Colgate for Kids, and the FOREO ISSA Kids.

Discover their strengths, weaknesses, and our tips for choosing the brush that will best suit your little one!

Comparison of the Best Kids' Electric Toothbrushes

1. Philips Sonicare for Kids

Pros - Philips Sonicare for Kids

• Available in multiple versions for different age groups (3+ / 7+).
• Fantastic interactive app with an engaging character (Sparkly).
• Non-slip handle for a secure grip.
• Built-in timer and rewards to encourage brushing.

Cons - Philips Sonicare for Kids

• No travel case included.
• Lacks a pressure sensor.

The strength of the Philips Sonicare for Kids toothbrush lies in its incredibly well-designed mobile app. Through a Bluetooth connection, your child is coached by Sparkly, a fun character who teaches them the correct techniques and congratulates them after each brushing session. It's a great way to make this moment more fun!

Technically, this sonic brush delivers with:

• An adapted brushing mode (gentle for ages 3+ / normal for ages 7+).
• Soft, rounded bristles for a deep clean without irritating the gums.
• An ergonomic handle that's easy to hold, even with foamy hands.

The only downside is its slightly high price (around $50). But given its proven effectiveness in building good habits in children, it's well worth it!

2. Oral-B Kids

Pros - Oral-B Kids

• Small round head and extra-soft bristles suitable for ages 3 and up.
• Features characters from Disney, Marvel, or Star Wars depending on the model.
• Sensitive mode for a very gentle brushing experience.
• Disney Magic Timer app to make brushing fun.

Cons - Oral-B Kids

• Can be quite noisy (due to the rapid rotation of the head).
• No built-in timer (but the app serves this function).

A leader in electric toothbrushes, Oral-B extends its oscillating-rotating technology into a range designed for children from age 3, featuring:

• A compact round head that perfectly surrounds each tooth.
• Soft bristles that rotate at high speed for an optimal clean.
• A fun handle featuring kids' favorite heroes.

Even without a built-in timer, the Oral-B Kids offers a free Disney Magic Timer app that helps children brush for 2 minutes by unlocking rewards. An excellent, budget-friendly alternative (under $30)!

3. humm by Colgate for Kids

Pros - humm by Colgate

• Uses augmented reality games to guide brushing.
• Tracks coverage to ensure no spots are missed.
• Rewards kids for building good habits.
• Smart, connected features in a kid-friendly package.

Cons - humm by Colgate

• Relies on a parent's smartphone for the full experience.

The humm by Colgate for Kids takes interactivity to the next level by turning brushing into a game. Using augmented reality, the app visualizes where your child is brushing and guides them to cover all areas of their mouth. It's a high-tech approach to building foundational habits.

• The brush's smart sensors connect to the app to provide real-time feedback.
• Kids can unlock new levels and characters as they brush correctly.
• The handle is designed for small hands and the bristles are extra soft.

For tech-savvy families, this brush (around $30) is a fantastic way to ensure a thorough clean while keeping kids engaged and motivated every day.

4. FOREO ISSA Kids

Pros - FOREO ISSA Kids

• Original and colorful all-silicone design.
• Gentle yet powerful sonic pulse technology.
• Ultra-soft silicone bristles, ideal for sensitive gums and teeth.
• Incredible battery life (up to 265 days!).
• Waterproof and very lightweight.

Cons - FOREO ISSA Kids

• Quite expensive (around $80-$100).

Available in several vibrant colors, the ISSA Kids brush will reconcile children over 5 with brushing thanks to its fun look and professional performance. Features include:

• A hybrid brush head combining polymer bristles to remove plaque and silicone bristles to massage the gums.
• A fun "Glee" and "Glum" timer (a happy face appears after 2 minutes of brushing, a sad face if less).
• A charge that lasts for almost a year!

With its gentle yet effective vibration, the ISSA Kids cleans teeth while stimulating gum microcirculation for a healthy, fresh mouth. It's certainly a bit pricey, but it's a durable and safe investment for your child's teeth.

At What Age Can Kids Use an Electric Toothbrush?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), children can start using a powered toothbrush from the age of 3. At this age, children often have the dexterity to handle the brush, but they will still require supervision from parents to ensure they are brushing correctly and safely.

It's important for parents to apply the toothpaste and guide the brushing process until they are confident their child can do it effectively on their own (usually around age 7 or 8).

For kids over 12, you can transition to adult electric models with larger brush heads and handles. Feel free to check out our selection of the best electric toothbrushes for all ages.

The Advantages of Electric Toothbrushes for Kids

Compared to a manual brush, an electric toothbrush offers many benefits for children:

• More effective brushing to remove plaque and prevent cavities.
• An easier motion as the brush does most of the work.
• A more fun experience thanks to colors, characters, music, and apps.
• Brushing assistance with timers, coaching apps, and more.
• Extra motivation to make brushing an enjoyable habit.

The main drawbacks are the higher initial cost compared to a manual model and the need to recharge it. But in the long run, the benefits far outweigh them!

How to Choose the Right Electric Toothbrush for Your Child

To find the ideal electric toothbrush for your child, here are the key criteria to consider:

• Head size: It should be compact enough to reach all back teeth.
• Bristle softness: Opt for soft or extra-soft bristles to avoid irritating the gums.
• Handle shape: It should be easy for small hands to hold (non-slip grip, accessible power button...).
• Presence of a timer: Very useful for teaching them to brush for the recommended duration.
• Design and colors: A fun and customizable look helps make the brush appealing.
• High-tech options: Some models offer coaching apps, rewards, and connected features.

Budget-wise, expect to spend between $25 and $100 for a quality kids' electric toothbrush. While it's more expensive than a classic brush, the investment can pay for itself by helping to prevent cavities and other dental problems!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, switching to an electric toothbrush at a young age has many benefits for your child's oral health. By helping them acquire good brushing habits in a fun way, you're giving them a great foundation for preserving their beautiful smile for life!

Whether you choose the budget-friendly fun of the Oral-B Kids, the smart technology of the Philips Sonicare, or the unique design of the FOREO ISSA Kids, the most important thing is to find the brush that makes your child want to brush their teeth with pleasure. Don't hesitate to let them choose their favorite model and get them involved in its daily use.

And remember, an electric brush doesn't replace regular visits to the dentist! A dentist will confirm that the brushing technique is correct and check that no cavities are developing. So, it's up to you to make dental hygiene a fun and positive experience for your little ones!

FAQ About Electric Toothbrushes for Kids

How to Teach a Child to Brush Their Teeth Properly?

Before age 6-7, you should be doing most of the brushing for your child or closely supervising. Make them comfortable and demonstrate the correct motions while explaining what you're doing. Then, let them try on their own while you watch. The key is to establish a brushing routine morning and night, at fixed times, to anchor this good habit.

When should we switch to an electric toothbrush for kids?

Most dentists and the ADA agree that you can introduce a powered toothbrush at age 3. Before this age, children may not have the necessary manual dexterity. The most important factor is parental supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.