Is it okay for kids to use an electric toothbrush?

READ: The Best Electric Toothbrushes for Kids 

Do you recommend electric toothbrushes to children in your practice?

At Advanced Dentistry of Westchester, we recommend electric toothbrushes to children on a case by case basis. Some kids just aren’t doing a good job keeping things clean with their current routine. An electric toothbrush may provide the help they need.

What are some of the benefits of using an electric toothbrush for kids? 

Manual toothbrushes clean teeth well but only if used properly. Electric toothbrushes can help make up for a brushing technique that is less than ideal.

Studies show that powered toothbrushes reduce plaque buildup over time more than manual brushes. They are helpful for children with special needs or when dexterity is an issue. Not to mention they can be really useful when trying to brush the teeth of a squirmy child. Parents should help brush until their child is at least 7 years old and can routinely tie their own shoes.

Some electric toothbrushes also include features that help get kids excited about brushing well for the full two minutes, which is a win for everyone. It is also interesting to note that occupational therapists often use vibration therapy to stimulate facial muscles and help with certain sensory issues. Lastly, toothbrushes with changeable heads use less plastic (as opposed to throwing an entire brush out), which is better for the environment.

At what age can a child start to use an electric toothbrush? 

When in doubt, check the recommendations for the specific toothbrush you are looking at. Most electric toothbrushes can be used starting around the age of three. Others suggest using their model for ages 7 and up.

What are some features to look for in an electric toothbrush for kids? 

As with any toothbrush, make sure the bristles are soft or extra-soft. Also consider the movement. Some have brush heads that rotate while others vibrate. Many vibrating brushes have different power modes, or a feature that allows the child to start slow and amp up to full brushing strength. This can be really helpful when introducing them to the new sensation.

There are even U-shaped brushes which clean all of the teeth at once when the child bites into it. Another helpful feature is a pressure sensor that causes the brush to stop when it’s being pushed too hard on the teeth. Ultimately, anything that will get your child involved in their own dental hygiene is useful.

Some play music or light up for two minutes so that the child stays engaged and the parent knows how long they should be brushing. Others connect to apps that play videos or reward good habits. One model even has an app that can track the actual brushing location and show the areas they’re missing.

What are some potential risks of using an electric toothbrush in kids to be aware of? 

Always choose a toothbrush with soft bristles, as any brush can do damage if the bristles are too firm or you’re pushing too hard. Try using two fingers or your opposite hand to hold the brush (this goes for manual toothbrushes too). Remember not to force the issue. No matter how good the toothbrush is, it won’t work if the child refuses to use it. No one wants to make the daily routine harder. You don’t want to discourage brushing altogether.

Do you have any tips for using an electric toothbrush with kids? 

Technique is key, although not as crucial as it is with a manual toothbrush. Slowly walk the brush along where the gums meet the teeth and let the electric toothbrush do the work. Make sure you’re reaching the cheek, tongue, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. It can’t clean what it doesn’t touch. Allow the child to ease in with the new device. Let them try it themselves before you brush for them. If the brush has different modes, start with gentle vibration and work your way up slowly over time.

A thorough cleaning is most important at night before bed, so focus on the evening routine. Of course, communicate with your dentist and dental hygienist about your new routine. They can give you feedback as to how well it’s working and if your child has more or less build-up than the previous visit.

How often should the toothbrush head to be replaced? 

Just like manual toothbrushes, replace their brush every 3 months or when bristles seem worn or bent out of shape. It’s also a good idea to change their toothbrush (or the head at least) whenever your child gets sick.

Do you have any favorite electric toothbrushes to recommend?

There is a range in price and features amongst electric toothbrushes. In the end, whatever gets them to happily brush twice a day is worth using. And if they get a good report at their check-up, keep with it!

READ our next article: Should you floss?

ABOUT DR. SABRINA MAGID-KATZ | PEDIATRIC DENTIST NY

Dr. Sabrina Magid Katz has expertise in pediatric dentistry. Dr. Sabrina Magid-Katz, D.M.D., lectures to dental societies about screening for Sleep Apnea and is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She practices general dentistry at Advanced Dentistry of Westchester in Harrison, NY where she also screens for and treats Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Dr. Magid Katz DMD holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Bases of Behavior from Duke University and completed her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. She is the recipient of the prestigious “Robert Seminara Resident of the Year” award for “excellence in General Dentistry and outstanding service as a PGY1 Dental Resident” from NY Presbyterian-Methodist Hospital. Named in Westchester Magazine as one of the 22 people that everyone in the County will be talking about, Dr. Sabrina Magid Katz DMD takes great pride in the cutting-edge dental care she offers patients, as well as in her expertise in screening for oral cancer and obstructive sleep apnea. Throughout her schooling and dental career, she has also been committed to addressing the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing patients. Dr. Magid Katz has been featured in Teen Vogue, Vice, Parent Magazine. Dentistry Today, Social Life Magazine, WAG Magazine, Fox 5 NY, and numerous media outlets.  

TOP RATED DENTIST IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY

Book an appointment to have your kid’s teeth cleaned and checked.

What kind of dental emergencies occur with children in Westchester County and what is the best way for parents to respond? 

Kids get bumps and bruises and the mouth is no exception!  It can be pretty scary to see your child hurt themselves, and even scarier if they’re bleeding.  Most often, a little blood in the mouth is from a bitten lip or tongue.  Try some cool water to wash it off gently, and some ice to reduce swelling.

It is important to be sure there is nothing worse going on, and the swelling and bleeding are under control.  It is rare that stitches are required.  Also pay attention to the teeth, particularly those in the front.

Make sure the teeth and surrounding bone have not moved and are not loose.  If the tooth comes out completely, do not clean it.  Put it in some milk and call the dentist, as this can save a big tooth in particular.  If a “baby” or deciduous tooth sustains some trauma, this can result in the tooth later becoming dark gray, which is caused by a drop of blood in the tooth pulp.

Although unaesthetic, this may cause no further problems.  The trauma can also cause the tooth to become infected which can result in its loss.  The good news is that unless this is ignored, it will not affect the permanent teeth. Whenever a child has a dental emergency, it is important to call the dentist, see the pediatrician, or go to urgent care.

EMERGENCY DENTAL APPOINTMENTS IN HARRISON, NY

When a child chips a tooth, is it important to treat the chip right away? Is there harm in waiting to treat (or not treating) a baby tooth? 

Treating a chipped tooth depends upon how much is chipped.  If there is a major loss of structure the tooth can be very sensitive to temperature and require prompt treatment.  Blood coming from the tooth itself may require more treatment due to a compromised tooth nerve.  A more minor chip may be an aesthetic concern, but is not something that is emergent in nature.  Make sure that the lips and tongue aren’t being cut on sharp edges.

What are some common causes of toothaches in kids and teens and what can caregivers do to ease the pain? 

Toothaches in children can often be caused by erupting teeth also known as teething.  As a child gets their first and then second set of teeth, the process can be uncomfortable.  This is best treated by palliative measures such as cold (ice cream works).

Another cause of tooth pain in children can be dental decay that is either untreated or was allowed to progress to the point that even if treated may result in the nerve of the tooth dying.  This has to be treated by a Westchester County dentist.  Analgesic medications such as Advil or Tylenol can mitigate the pain until professional treatment is accomplished.

If a child is complaining of a toothache, it is best to have a dentist evaluate the source of the pain.

HARRISON, NEW YORK | EMERGENCY DENTIST

What is one thing Westchester parents are surprised to learn regarding pediatric dental emergencies? 

Parents are often concerned that their child’s permanent front teeth erupt through the gum towards the inside of the mouth while the baby teeth are still there.  Although occasionally this needs professional intervention, most often as the permanent teeth grow in the action of the tongue pushes them forward and results in the natural loss of the baby teeth.

Emergency Dentist Nearby | Harrison, New York |  Family Dentistry

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Worst Summer Food for your Teeth 

Westchester County dentist shares top tips for a healthy summer smile

Dr. Sabrina Magid-Katz shares oral health tips

What is better than laying out on a hot summer day with a glass of sparkling water in hand? Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the effect those delicious summer cocktails have on your teeth. Summer is a time for pool parties and BBQ’s, but it is important to keep those pearly whites healthy too!

Chips, sodas and sugary drinks are summer favorites, but unfortunately, they are also dental health dangers.

Westchester Dentist Dr. Sabrina Magid-Katz of Advanced Dentistry of Westchester shares the top cavity culprits to look out for this summer as well as her favorite healthy substitutes.

Lemonade

When people think of summer, they often think of lemonade. What they may not think about is how sipping on this refreshing drink is affecting their teeth. Not only does the sugar in lemonade feed the bacteria in your mouth, but even the sugar-free lemonades have acid. It’s the acid that actually causes tooth wear and decay. “When people talk about sugar causing cavities, what really happens is that the bacteria eat the sugar and produce acid which erodes the teeth.

It takes approximately 20 minutes for your mouth to recover from the acid, so how often you sip or snack is actually more important to your teeth than how much,” says Dr. Magid-Katz. For a healthy substitute, try cucumber-infused water instead. It’s just as refreshing on a hot summer day and good for you too!

Dried Fruit

Summer is a great time for fruit. Make sure to opt for fresh fruit instead of dried. Not only are many types of fruit in season now, but eating them fresh is a much healthier alternative. The dried fruit is sticky and holds on to your teeth for extended periods of time, constantly feeding the bacteria in your mouth and causing cavities. When eating any kind of fruit (or any food at all for that matter) beware of hidden pits that can break teeth and seeds that can hide under your gums and in the grooves of your teeth. Be sure to brush and floss thoroughly to keep the seeds out.

Gummy Candy

While gummy candy can be tempting this summer, it is one of the top cavity culprits! Be sure to avoid sticky candies and sour candies. “Sour candies get their sour taste from acid, which dissolves teeth,” says Dr. Magid-Katz. The sticky part of the candy sits on teeth and feeds bacteria. Go for the dark chocolate instead of the sour patch kids. Also avoid fruit by the foot. Fruit by the foot is many things, but fruit isn’t one of them. It is like gluing sugar to your teeth.

“Healthy” sticky snacks

Granola and raisins are considered “healthy” snacks that are actually dental dangers. These snacks are prone to sticking to teeth and contain substances that help keep bacteria in the mouth. As a healthy alternative this summer, opt for a less sticky “healthy” snack such as celery. Celery has lots of fiber and water, which is good for your whole body. Try some nut butter on it for an extra boost.

Maintain a healthy and beautiful smile all summer long. 

Here are out top tips to ensure a healthy smile, while still being able to make the most of your summer. 

DENTIST SHARES ORAL HEALTH TIPS FOR SUMMER

Limit sugar intake: Summertime often means more sugary and acidic drinks, such as soda, sports drinks, and lemonade. Try to limit your intake of these beverages and opt for water instead of sparkling water. 

Gulping is more beneficial to your teeth than sipping. 

Any drink that is acidic can remove enamel; so, try to stay away from lemon or lime-based cocktails.

Wine is acidic and removes layers of enamel, but if you are a wine enthusiast, white wine is actually more acidic than red.  

Adding a lot of sugar to any drink makes the drink more of a dental problem, so instead use whole fruit as an added sweetener.

What are some common dental problems that can arise during summer?

There are several common dental problems that can arise during the summer:

Dental emergencies: Summer activities such as swimming, amusement parks, sports, and other outdoor activities can increase the risk of dental emergencies such as chipped or knocked-out teeth.

Tooth sensitivity: Many people experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks during the summer which can be caused by consuming excessive amounts of acidic or sugary beverages, or dehydration.

Dry mouth: Hot weather, outdoor activities, and certain medications can cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Tooth decay: Increased consumption of sugary drinks and snacks, along with poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Oral health tips for summer vacation:

Pack a travel dental kit: Make sure to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash to maintain good oral hygiene while on vacation.

Keep up with oral hygiene: Even if you’re on vacation, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.

Drink water: Instead of sugary or acidic drinks, choose water to stay hydrated and keep your mouth moist. 

Protect your teeth: If you are participating in outdoor activities, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury.

Don’t chew on ice cubes: Ice cubes are tempting to chew on to cool down, but they can also wreak havoc on your teeth. 

Protect your gums from the sun: If you want to avoid gum sensitivity, be sure to use SPF to protect your gums. 

Whiten your teeth: You may want to consider professional teeth whitening before a summer vacation to whiten your smile for vacation photos.

By following these simple tips, you can maintain your oral health routine while enjoying your summer vacation.

What should I do if I experience a dental emergency during summer?

Be sure to act quickly in the event of a dental emergency. 

Contact your dentist: Call your dentist’s office as soon as possible to let them know about the emergency. They can advise you on the next steps to take and may be able to schedule an emergency appointment. If you experience a dental emergency during the summer, it’s important to act immediately. 

WESTCHESTER COUNTY EMERGENCY DENTIST | HARRISON, NEW YORK

If you are planning on traveling this summer, schedule a checkup before you go away. Call the office to book an appointment so your teeth are sparkling and vacation photos ready for all of your selfies.  Are you due for a checkup? Call today to schedule your next appointment! (914) 835-0542.