What Toothbrush Should My Kids Use?

There are so many different kinds of toothbrushes to choose from, and while they may all look similar, not all brushes work the same. In fact, there are some big differences between the types of toothbrushes available, and it can be difficult to know which one will be right for your kids. To help you find the perfect toothbrush to fit your child’s oral health needs, check out this guide from your pediatric dentist in Spring.

The Bristles

One of the most important things to consider when deciding on which toothbrush to buy your kids is the bristles. When your pediatric dentist in Spring considers the bristles of a toothbrush, they look for two things – the shape and the density. 

• Shape – Bristles are either straight or rounded, and this difference is sometimes very subtle, so make sure to look closely. Rounded bristles are usually recommended for most people as they’re effective at removing plaque and bacteria while also being gentle. Straight bristles, on the other hand, can damage tooth enamel or gums, especially if your little one brushes too hard. 
• Density – Toothbrush packaging will also list information about how dense the bristles are. You’ll see this referenced as soft, medium, or hard. Most likely, your pediatric dentist in Spring will recommend that kids use a soft-bristled toothbrush as opposed to a medium or hard. Soft bristles are gentle enough to get a thorough clean while not causing damage to teeth or gums. 

The Size

Sometimes, bigger is better. But not when it comes to your kid’s toothbrush. You don’t want to invest in a toothbrush that your child can’t comfortably fit in his mouth or one that’s too difficult to manage. Look for a toothbrush that has an appropriately-sized head and handle. The head should be large enough to be able to brush two teeth at once but not too large that he can’t reach his back teeth.  

The Cost 

The cost of toothbrushes can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. The most obvious is whether you’re looking to buy a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes and their replacement heads are often more expensive than manual toothbrushes. However, if your little one finds manual toothbrushes difficult to use, an electric toothbrush may be recommended. Don’t worry though, there are now affordable electric toothbrushes that your dentist can recommend. 

The ADA Seal of Approval

No matter if you choose a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush, make sure you look for the ADA Seal of Approval. Toothbrushes that have earned the seal have undergone testing to make sure they’re safe, durable, and won’t increase the risk of gum or enamel damage. 

So, which toothbrush should your child use? The one that he will pick up every morning and night and use for two minutes. Besides following the tips above, you can make brushing more fun by picking a toothbrush in his favorite color or featuring his favorite character. 

About The Author

Dr. Leslie Blackburn

Dr. Leslie Blackburn always knew she wanted to work with children and decided to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry. She enrolled at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, where she received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Master of Science in Dental Education. She finished the last leg of her education at Yale University, where she obtained her certificate in Pediatric Dentistry.

Read The Full Bio