Getting Rid of Gum Disease

You may have never put much thought into choosing a toothbrush for your child. You can find an endless number of toothbrushes at the store, but how do you know which one is best for your child? There are multiple sizes, shapes, and styles of toothbrushes designed for children. The following information breaks down the different toothbrushes by age and what to look out for as you make an informed decision:

What Should All Children's Toothbrushes Have?

All children's toothbrushes should fit properly inside the mouth. The toothbrush must be small or large enough to fit comfortably in your child's hand so it can be manipulated properly in order to effectively clean the teeth. You should choose a toothbrush that has soft bristles to clean the teeth and gums without causing irritation. You might also want to choose a toothbrush that is your child's favorite color or has your child's favorite characters to help them enjoy the process of brushing their teeth.

What Type of Toothbrush Is Best for a Baby?

Even babies need to have a good oral hygiene routine. You can start out by wiping the child's gums with a washcloth each time they eat to help keep the mouth clear of bacteria. When your child gets a tooth, you should choose a small toothbrush designed for babies that will fit properly. You should clean your baby's mouth and teeth at least twice a day. This not only will keep the mouth and teeth clean but also get them used to brushing at an early age.

What Type of Toothbrush is Best for Toddlers?

Once your child is at the toddler stage, they may have a greater interest in being responsible for their own teeth brushing. You may also experience some drawback or lack of willingness to brush their teeth. Your child's toothbrush should have a smaller head and wide handles to help them have a better grip. Your toddler will not have the necessary skills to brush their teeth independently but encourage them to try it themselves as much as possible. Doing so will help them develop the habit more easily. Once your child brushes, you should take over and finish the job to ensure the teeth are good and clean. Be sure to let your child choose their own toothbrush to make it fun.

What Type of Toothbrush Is Best for Young Children?

As your child gets older, they should be more independent when it comes to brushing. You should get a toothbrush that has a longer, slimmer handle that they can easily manipulate. The bristles should be soft, and the head should fit into their mouth comfortably. The mouth of children this age is larger, and the jaw is more defined. If your child has some adult teeth, you need a toothbrush with a head that will effectively clean all types of teeth.

Talk to a professional specialized in pediatric dentistry for more tips about your child's dental hygiene.