Selecting The Ideal Toothbrush For Your Child
Toothbrushes aren’t a one size fits all device. Having the appropriate toothbrush size for your child’s age makes for a more thorough cleaning.
Here are factors to keep in mind when selecting a toothbrush.
Tooth Brush Basics
Before we discuss ages, let’s look at some characteristics that all children’s toothbrushes should have.
1. Soft bristles — Medium or hard bristles may permanently damage gums
2. Rounded end — The ends of the bristles should be polished so that they don’t have sharp edges
3. Fun – Your child will be more likely to brush if the toothbrush design is something they like
0-2 Years Old
Did you know that even before your child cuts their first tooth you should be cleaning their gums? When selecting the appropriate toothbrush the head of the toothbrush will be very small with a large soft handle that a small child can easily grip.
If your toddler wants to brush by his/herself, encourage it, but brush his/her teeth after to make sure all plaque/debris is removed.
3-9 Years Old
At this age the brush is still smaller but looks more like an adult brush. The head will fit comfortably in the mouth with a narrow handle that the child now has the motor skills to grip. The child should be brushing his teeth with constant to intermediate supervision. It’s important to still supervise or check behind your child at this age.
10-16 Years Old
By this age, the child should have an independent cleaning routine. Pre-teen/Teen sized, themed power toothbrushes with timers are a great way to keep pre-teens and teens interested in oral health.
17+ Years Old
Your child will now use an adult size toothbrush and continue to stay healthy because of the healthy habits that you helped nurture.
Along with the great resources for home care it’s important for routine dental cleanings to be apart of your child’s dental care. If you are looking for a place to call your dental home, call Dentistry on Carmel today to schedule your dental cleaning 704.900.5045.
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