We’ve had a similar experience with the whole “trial and error” thing. Every time I think we’ve cracked the code, my son suddenly decides he can’t stand the brush he loved last month. The buzzing from the electric ones was a big issue for us too—he’d clamp his mouth shut and refuse to even try. The manual brushes are definitely less overwhelming for him, at least for now.
I do think there’s something to be said for starting with manual, especially when you’re teaching technique. It’s easier to guide their hand or brush together, and it feels a bit less intimidating. But when the nightly battle starts, honestly, I just want to make sure his teeth are getting clean, no matter what tool we use.
The cost of replacing brush heads is no joke either. Between chewing and dropping them in the sink, I feel like I’m constantly restocking. If someone invents a truly indestructible brush, I’ll be first in line... Until then, it’s all about what works in the moment—even if that changes every week.
It’s wild how quickly their preferences can flip, right? Last month my daughter was all about her purple electric brush, now she acts like it’s some kind of torture device. I get what you mean about the buzzing—it’s supposed to help, but for some kids it just ramps up the stress. I’ve noticed that manual brushes let me be more involved, especially when she’s half-asleep and barely cooperating.
But then I wonder, does switching back and forth between types mess up their technique or make it harder for them to get used to one way? Like, is consistency important or is it just about getting the job done however we can? Also, with the chewing thing—have you found any brushes that actually survive more than a month? I swear I’m just throwing money down the drain sometimes.
Yeah, the brush graveyard in my bathroom drawer is getting a little outta hand… My kid went through a phase where she’d only use this one blue manual brush, then suddenly decided she hated it and wanted the “grown-up” electric one. That lasted about two weeks before she started complaining about the noise and “weird tickle” feeling. Now I just keep a couple different ones on hand and let her pick, otherwise we’d never get anywhere.
I kinda wonder about the consistency thing too, but honestly, as long as she’s actually brushing and not just chewing on it, I call that a win. Technique is probably less important at this age than just making it a habit, ya know? As for the chewing… I swear, if someone invents a kid-proof toothbrush, they’ll be rich. The only ones that last more than a month for us are those chunky ones with the rubber grips, but even those look like they’ve been through a war.
