A toothbrush is among the most important tools for your child’s dental hygiene. The teeth cleaning device removes plaque, which, if left unchecked, turns into tartar, a substance that can lead to gum disease and can only be removed by a dentist. However, children — depending on their age — may need help caring for their toothbrush. To ensure they continue to clean their teeth effectively, help them implement the following tips.

How to Care for Your Child’s Toothbrush

1. Never Let Kids Share Brushes

Never allow your child to share their toothbrush with another person, even if the individual is a sibling or a relative. Toothbrush sharing exchanges bacteria and other microorganisms, heightening the risk of infection.

2. Keep It Upright

After they’re done with the toothbrush, have your child put the tool in an upright position to promote fast drying. Tell them to keep it away from other teeth cleaning devices as well as the toilet. Contact with other brushes increases the risk of bacteria transmission. Brushes near toilet bowls can get sprayed every time the appliance is flushed, which also increases germ contamination.

3. Use Travel Toothbrushes

Switch to travel toothbrushes when your family goes on vacation; these devices fold up and feature holes for aeration. If you do not want to buy them, cover your child’s existing brush with a breathable plastic travel case. Do not store the brush in a closed container to avoid bacteria growth.

4. Make Sure They Always Rinse It

Instruct your little one to rinse their brush well to remove all food particles and toothpaste. If they share a bathroom with siblings, use sanitizing products periodically to keep everyone’s toothbrush clean. Deep-cleaning equipment with ultraviolet lights can destroy microorganisms and bacteria.

5. Replace It Every Three Months or After Sickness

Replace your kid’s brush every three months or following an illness to reduce the risk of infection or reinfection. Toothbrushes also become frayed after months of use and are not as effective. If their brush frays before the three-month mark, replace it.

In addition to brushing and flossing daily, children should receive teeth cleanings every six months at a dental office. Schedule your kid’s next exam with Pediatric Dental Group in Honolulu, HI. Since 1966, these pediatric dentists have provided routine exams, orthodontics, and other comprehensive services to keep little ones’ mouths healthy. Call (808) 593-8828 to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment, or visit the website for a full list of services. Like the dentists on Facebook for more dental hygiene tips.