Tips For Buying A Toothbrush For Your Child

Posted on: 2 May 2018

Kids need a good oral health routine from a young age. In addition to regular dental exams, teeth brushing is absolutely essential. But, it is important for kids to use the right toothbrush each day to help keep their teeth healthy and clean. As a parent, you may be confused by what type of toothbrush to purchase for your child-- in most drug stores there is a whole aisle of just toothbrushes! Use the following tips to help you buy the right toothbrush for your child:

Make Sure That you Get the Right Size

Since kids have smaller mouths than adults, it is important to buy a smaller toothbrush that is specifically designed for a child. Child-sized toothbrushes come in several different sizes, such as very small toothbrushes for infants, slightly larger ones for toddlers, and bigger ones for pre-school and elementary aged kids. When shopping for a new toothbrush for your child, carefully read the packages-- most child toothbrushes are labeled to say what ages they are best for.

Type of Bristles

Toothbrushes are available in soft, medium, or hard bristles. Unless your child's dentist has said otherwise, your best option is to purchase your child a toothbrush with soft bristles. Using a toothbrush with medium or hard bristles can actually damage a child's gums and the enamel on their teeth. Medium/hard bristles can also irritate the mouth of a child, which can make teeth brushing time more difficult if your child does not enjoy having his or her teeth brushed.

Large Rubber Grip

Small children don't have the coordination and dexterity to properly brush their teeth on their own, but most kids want to learn and practice on their own after their parents have cleaned their teeth thoroughly. You can help your child learn how to hold and properly position a toothbrush by purchasing one with a large rubber grip on the handle. The rubber grip makes it much easier for a child to hold the toothbrush and prevents the handle from slipping out of his or her hands. 

Consider an Electric Toothbrush

When your child begins to brush his or her teeth without assistance, you may want to consider investing in an electric toothbrush. An electric toothbrush can remove more build up and debris from the surface of the teeth, so you will have the peace of mind of knowing that your child's teeth are being cleaned as he or she learns to brush his or her teeth alone. 

To learn more, contact a dentist like Kenneth Schweizer DDS PA

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