Once your child’s first baby teeth emerge, you should help them start brushing to keep teeth and gums clean. To support their dental hygiene, give your little one a toothbrush that accommodates their specific needs. If you’re unsure about how to find the right device for your kid, here are a few factors to consider when buying their toothbrush.

What Should You Consider When Selecting a Kids’ Toothbrush?

1. Size

Children’s toothbrushes come in a variety of sizes. As a general rule of thumb, the smaller the child, the smaller the brush should be. Choose products designed for children that will fit comfortably in the mouth and reach all areas of the teeth and gums without difficulty. 

2. Grip  

As children age, their dexterity improves. Since younger children often have issues with grip, provide a product that features a thick, round, rubber handle. To minimize the need for a tight grip, you can also give them a powered toothbrush since these devices do the cleaning automatically without the need for forceful brushing.  

3. Bristle Strength

The hard bristles on adult toothbrushes can irritate gums. Give your little one a brush with soft, rounded-tip bristles. While gentle on the teeth and gums, these tools can still remove food and plaque to support dental hygiene.

4. Design

It can take a while for little kids to develop proper hygiene habits. However, you can speed up the process by having your child choose their own brush. Often, kids will be drawn to toothbrushes that feature cartoons and designs of their favorite characters. While the style of a brush doesn’t impact the tool’s cleaning ability, choosing a kid-friendly design will make your little one feel like their dental care is representative of their personality. This connection will help them appreciate the importance of dental hygiene. 

The toothbrush your child uses can have a significant impact on their oral health, but it’s just one of many dental hygiene decisions you’ll need to make. Fortunately, Pediatric Dental Group in Honolulu, HI, can help simplify the process. Serving the children of Oahu and Kauai since 1966, this provider offers personalized recommendations on which products will best clean your little one’s teeth and gums in addition to regular cleanings and exams. Visit the practice online to learn more about the ways these specialists will enhance your child’s dental care. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 593-8828.