Oral hygiene is important from a very young age. As soon as the first signs of teeth start to show, toothbrushing is essential for keeping the gums and teeth healthy. Teaching good brushing practice and the importance of it while they’re young can help to reduce the risk of needing a tooth filling and other procedures throughout their life. But with so many different toothbrushes on offer, how do you know which one is right for your child?

Getting the right size

You should look for a toothbrush designed for the age of your child so that it can fit comfortably in their hand and mouth. Also, look at the shape of the handle to find one that will be easy and comfortable for them to hold.

Softer bristles are better

Brushing too hard or using a brush with harder bristles will gradually wear away the enamel on teeth, which can lead to toothache and other problems. Always look for a soft-bristled brush when choosing one for your child. For babies and infants, you might be able to find brushes with extra soft bristles designed for young teeth and gums.

Electric or manual?

Children under the age of three should always be using a soft-bristled manual toothbrush. From the age of three onwards, you’ve got a choice between manual and electric. Manual toothbrushes are perfectly fine for children of all ages, as long as they’re using them properly or you’re brushing for them.

Electric toothbrushes can be easier for kids to use and can make tooth-brushing more fun and exciting. If using an electric toothbrush makes your kids more likely to brush for the right amount of time, then it’s a worthwhile investment.

A range of novelty kids’ toothbrushes

One of the best ways to get your kids brushing every day is to make it fun for them. This is why kids’ toothbrushes come in lots of fun designs and colors. Find a toothbrush that appeals to what they love, like a dinosaur-shaped toothbrush or one with their favorite cartoon character on it. Some kids’ toothbrushes even play music to keep them entertained and to show them how long they need to brush for.

Once you know what features you need from your child’s toothbrush, it’s a good idea to let them choose which one they want based on the different colors and designs. If they’ve got a toothbrush they like, then they’re more likely to willingly brush their teeth twice a day.

If you need any more tips for choosing your child’s toothbrush or if it’s time to book a check-up with your dentist, then call Advance Family Dental for pain-free dentistry in Advance, NC.