Your pediatric dentist in Prairie Village recommends that you start brushing your kid’s teeth even before they show their first tooth. In fact, the American Dental Association suggests gently wiping a baby’s gums with a wet washcloth or soft piece of material. When a child’s teeth do start to erupt, it’s time to start using a toothbrush. But how do you know which toothbrush is best for kids? 

Soft Bristles

One of the most important things to look for when choosing a toothbrush for your child is soft bristles. Soft bristles are safe and effective at removing bacteria and plaque from teeth, but they also help protect tooth enamel and gums. 

Size Matters

A quick stroll down the toothbrush aisle will show you just how vastly toothbrush sizes vary. Usually, kids will need a smaller toothbrush that has both a shorter handle and head. This will help make brushing more comfortable.

Seal of Approval

Once you’ve narrowed down your selection to size-appropriate brushes with soft bristles, look at the packaging for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Products with this seal have been researched and approved for safety and efficacy. 

Is an Electric Toothbrush Better Than a Manual Toothbrush? 

The answer as to whether an electric toothbrush is better for your child than a manual toothpaste isn’t completely straightforward and can depend on various factors. Your pediatric dentist in Prairie Village typically won’t recommend that a child three years of age or younger use an electric toothbrush. Truthfully, the best toothbrush for your child is one that they can use correctly and feel comfortable using. 

How to Properly Brush Your Kid’s Teeth

In addition to finding a toothbrush that your child will use, you need to make sure they can use it properly. There is no need to scrub teeth, in fact, this can do more harm than good. Instead, have your child hold the toothbrush so the bristles are at a 45-degree angle and brush in gentle, small circles. Make sure they brush all tooth surfaces, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. 

Other Toothbrush Tips

Besides using the right toothbrush, your pediatric dentist in Prairie Village also has other important toothbrush tips to consider.

• Never share toothbrushes. Sharing toothbrushes also means sharing bacteria. 
• Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months.
• Use only a tiny amount of toothpaste for kids under three years old.
• For kids older than three, increase the amount of toothpaste to the size of a pea.
• Supervise kids’ brushings until you’re sure they can clean without swallowing.
• Brush teeth twice a day.

If you have additional questions about how to find the best toothbrush for your child, call to schedule a visit with your pediatric dentist today.  

We have pediatric dentists throughout Johnson County and the Kansas City area including in Overland Park, Prairie Village, Olathe, and Kansas City.