People’s needs for oral hygiene change as they progress through life. For instance, a toothbrush designed for adults may not be the ideal choice for your newborn or toddler. Despite the fact that every child is unique, there are some general recommendations you may make, which All Kids Dental lists below.
Characteristics You Should Think About When Buying a Toothbrush
There are many different toothbrushes available for kids. Some of the features you should look out for are:
Bristles: Bristles are the most important part of the toothbrush. Bristles come in all shapes and sizes but a soft-bristled toothbrush is the best choice. Hard-bristled toothbrushes can damage your gums and provide no extra cleaning power. Soft bristles clean teeth effectively without damaging sensitive gums.
Size: The toothbrush head should be the right size for your child’s mouth. The toothbrush head should sit comfortably between the back molars and the cheek and it should be small enough to clean any hard-to-reach areas.
Handle Length: The most effective grips are based not on shape, but on comfort. When choosing a new toothbrush for your child, you want to make sure the handle is large and comfortable enough for them to hold and brush for two minutes. If the handle is the wrong size, it may not be easy for them to grip and brush effectively.
ADA Seal of Acceptance: Toothbrushes with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance have been scientifically tested for safety and effectiveness by independent experts. To earn this seal, companies must meet standards that often exceed legal requirements. This means you can be confident that a toothbrush with this seal is safe for your child.
Toothbrushes For Different Age Groups
Oral care is different for each child. Here’s a general guide as to what you can expect.
- Toothbrushes for babies: You can start cleaning your baby’s mouth a few days after birth by wiping the gums with a damp cloth or gauze after feedings. Once the first tooth erupts, use a toothbrush with a small head designed for your baby’s mouth. Brushing your baby’s teeth will keep their gums clean and help them get used to brushing twice a day.
- Toothbrush for toddlers: By age two, your child may want to get involved in brushing their teeth. The toddler toothbrush has a small head and a large handle with a soft handle that is easy for little hands to grasp. At this age, your child hasn’t developed the control to brush effectively, but he or she can take cues from you.
- Toothbrush 5 to 8 years old: Between the ages of 5 and 8, your child is ready for independent dental care. Toothbrushes for these kids are specially designed for children who have both baby and adult teeth. While young children can develop the skills needed to brush effectively, they usually still need supervision while brushing.
- Toothbrush for children over 8 years old: From the age of eight, children can brush their own teeth. Their toothbrushes look similar to adult products but with slightly smaller heads and larger handles.
Personalize Your Child’s Toothbrush
When looking for the right toothbrush for your child, don’t just think about the right features. A toothbrush tailored to your child’s unique interests can make brushing more fun and encourage a lifelong oral care habit. Help your kids love their toothbrushes by making brushing their teeth fun. Look for brushes with features that will make your child more willing to brush such as their favorite color.
Choosing the right toothbrush can play an important role in helping your child achieve dental success. If you have any questions about your child’s oral care or are looking for pediatric dentistry at All Kids Dental of Suffolk Dr. Joe and Dr. Brett are ready to help you with the highest quality dental care available. Whether your child needs digital X-rays, special needs plans, infant exams, or tooth-colored fillings our team is ready to provide you and your child with a comfortable and fun experience. Call 757-922-8110 to make an appointment with one of our doctors today.
