Dental News

Learn How to Choose Your Child’s First Toothbrush

January 18, 2019

Learn How to Choose Your Child’s First Toothbrush

There are many firsts that you are likely excited for your child to achieve. Their first step, their first word, their first day at school – but their first toothbrush? This is likely not something that you have thought much about until it is time to do so. Many parents don’t realize just how important it can be to make the right choice. Read on to learn how to choose the right toothbrush and then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you need to make an appointment with a family dentist.

When do you get a toothbrush?

First, before we cover what toothbrush to buy, let us discuss when the right time to buy it will be. You should begin to brush your baby’s teeth when they first have a tooth appear. Until that happens, you can use a clean, moist washcloth to simply wipe down your baby’s gums. Once your child has a tooth, then it is time to pick up a toothbrush.

Choose the right size and softness

You do not want to simply grab an extra toothbrush your dentist gave you at your last dental cleaning and exam. You need a toothbrush that is designed for infants or toddlers. It will have a small head that easily fits into your child’s small mouth. It will also have extra-soft bristles to ensure that it does not damage their gums. We recommend choosing a brush with a bright, fun pattern so that your child will associate brushing time with fun time.

There are also specialty toothbrushes available for your child too. For example, if they are left handed then they may use a special toothbrush. There are options with extra grip to make them easier to hold. There are even electronic toothbrushes for toddlers and kids.

Tips for helping your child brush their teeth

If your child is too young to trust that they will spit out their toothbrush instead of swallowing it, then we do not recommend using toothpaste. Once they are old enough to spit it out, then we suggest using the right amount. This should be just a small dab. Note that adults only need a pea-sized amount of toothpaste so you can imagine how small a child’s needs are.

As your child brushes your teeth, make sure you supervise them. We recommend making brushing time something that the entire family does together. This allows you to ensure that they are keeping up with their brushing needs without having to specifically police them. It also helps them associate brushing with positive memories.

Their toothbrush should be replaced every three months at a minimum, though you may need to do so sooner if the bristles begin to look frayed. Remember that they should see a dentist on a regular basis to ensure their teeth are coming in healthfully. You can reach out to California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 now to set up an appointment.

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