At Ritchie Dental Group, our team members are often asked how to choose the most basic tool of oral hygiene, the toothbrush. Picking a toothbrush can be as challenging as choosing a paint color, and there seems to be just as many choices.
If you have visited the dental section of your local grocery store, you know what I am talking about. There are brushes with bristles of varying lengths, brushes that massage your gums, and brushes that change color when they are used up.
Choosing a Toothbrush for a Child
Your child’s toothbrush should fit in their mouths and be easy to hold and use. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles. It’s also important that they like their toothbrush (think Princess vs Astronaut) so pick one out together. If they like it, it will be more fun to use and less of a brushing battle.
Babies and Toddlers
Although many parents use a damp washcloth, you can start using a gentle baby toothbrush with your little one even before they have any teeth. Babie’s toothbrushes have very small heads designed to fit inside their mouth. Starting to brush this early gets them used to the toothbrushing routine and also keeps their gums and erupting teeth clean.
By the age of two, your toddler will probably want to brush their own teeth. Buy a special toddler-sized toothbrush, which should have a small head and large handle. This will make it easier for their hands to hold the brush. At this age, they will need help from you after they’ve brushed.
Older Children
Keep buying child-sized toothbrushes. They’re not ready for an adult version until they’re adult-sized. They still need supervision in brushing. Once they can tie their own shoes, they’re able to brush on their own. Of course, reminders still come in handy!
Visiting the dentist every six months can help your child maintain a healthy mouth and good oral health habits. At Ritchie Dental Group in Marble Falls, our services include general and family dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule your next checkup with us today.
Contact Ritchie Dental Group:
830-693-8833
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1000 Marble Heights Dr, Marble Falls TX
Marble Falls, Texas
78654
