genetics just play a big part too. Sometimes it feels like no matter what you do, some kids are just more prone.
I keep hearing that, but does anyone actually know if electric brushes are worth the extra money? I’m always second-guessing if we need them or if a manual and good technique is enough. Batteries and brush heads add up fast...
We switched to electric for my daughter after her last checkup showed some plaque issues, even though she brushed with a manual. I was skeptical about the cost too, but honestly, it’s made a difference—she actually wants to brush now and her dentist noticed less buildup. Still, I think technique matters most… just feels like the electric helps us stay on track when motivation dips.
I keep wondering if I’m overthinking this, but manual brushing still makes me nervous. I get worried my son isn’t reaching every spot, even though we try to follow those little circles the dentist showed us. Electric seems helpful, but the buzzing kind of freaks him out... plus, I’m not sure it’s really a magic fix? We’re sticking with manual for now and just supervising really closely—maybe I’m being too cautious, but it feels safer until he’s more comfortable.
I totally get where you’re coming from. My daughter was the same way—she hated the noise of the electric brush at first, and honestly, I worried if we were missing spots with manual too. Here’s what helped us: we stuck with manual for a while, just like you’re doing, and made it kind of a “team sport.” Sometimes I’d brush my teeth with her so she could copy my motions, and we’d count out loud or sing a song to make sure we brushed long enough. Eventually, she got more confident and less squirmy about it.
When we finally tried electric again, we let her hold it while it was turned off first, just to get used to the feel. It took a few tries before she was okay with the buzzing, but now she actually prefers it. But honestly, I don’t think there’s a magic fix—being there and making it routine seems to matter more than the brush itself.
You’re definitely not being too cautious. If manual feels safer for now, that’s totally fine. You’ll know when he’s ready to try something new.
Manual was the only thing my kid would tolerate for ages—she called the electric brush “the angry bee,” which, honestly, fair enough. I used to stress about getting every spot too, but we did the mirror routine (her brushing while watching me) and it helped a lot. Some days were a battle, other days she’d want to brush her stuffed animal’s teeth, go figure.
When we finally tried electric again, I let her turn it on and off herself, which seemed to give her some control over the situation. Took a few weeks before she’d actually use it on her teeth. Now she acts like it’s a power tool and won’t use anything else.
Honestly, I don’t think there’s a “right” answer—whatever keeps them brushing without tears is a win in my book. If that means manual for now, so be it. Teeth will get clean either way if you stick with it.
