Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Advice From a Kids Dentist

Kids Dentist Dumont, NJ

According to a kids dentist, many parents are unsure as to which toothbrush and toothpaste their child should use. Going to a store and looking at the wide selection available can be overwhelming. In this review, we offer advice from our kids dentist as to how parents can ensure that their child has the right toothbrush and toothpaste for their needs.

How to choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste

The type of toothbrush and toothpaste that parents choose for their child can play an integral role in the health of their primary teeth and gums. Here are several ways to ensure that a child uses the most suitable toothbrush and toothpaste every day.

Consider the child’s age

The child’s age makes a significant difference when it comes to their recommended toothbrush. Pediatric dentists typically recommend a silicone finger-slip toothbrush or a baby toothbrush with a small head for a toddler (a child under the age of three). Keep in mind that the parent should brush their child’s teeth for them during this time. The toothbrush can get larger as the child grows older. Still, they should continue using a kid-sized toothbrush until they reach the age of 10, at which point, they can switch to an adult-sized toothbrush.

Make sure the toothbrush has soft bristles

Children should only use soft-bristle toothbrushes, as this helps ensure that they are being gentle on their teeth and gums while they brush. Otherwise, they may damage the gums and/or cause the enamel to weaken due to excessive pressure. A soft-bristle toothbrush is also more comfortable.

Make sure the toothbrush has a comfortable handle

Children are still developing their motor skills, so brushing in an organized and comfortable fashion is not that easy for them. One great way to make it easier is to ensure that they have a soft and comfortable grip on a toothbrush that is the appropriate size.

Allow your child to choose the design

Ideally, the child should be excited about their toothbrush. To ensure that this is the case, allow them to choose it for themselves (after the size and bristle type have been selected). For instance, perhaps the child’s favorite color is purple, and their favorite TV character is Mickey Mouse. In this case, a purple Mickey Mouse toothbrush is a great way to get them excited about brushing each day.

Choose a fun, fluoride-based toothpaste

Parents can also have fun with the toothpaste that they choose. There are special kids' toothpastes that have fun branding and interesting flavors. As long as the toothpaste has fluoride and is approved by the American Dental Association, it should work well.

Schedule a visit with our kids dentist today

Here at our dental practice, we focus on the prevention of oral health concerns through preventive, diagnostic, and educational services. We are happy to help families in our local community, and we invite you to schedule a visit with us at a time that is convenient for you and your child.

Request an appointment here: https://novapedsdentistry.com or call Nova Pediatric Dentistry at (201) 812-2952 for an appointment in our Dumont office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Dumont, NJ.

Recent Posts

Ask A Pediatric Dentist: When Your Child Should Start Using Toothpaste With Fluoride?

Children, who are particularly prone to tooth decay, should brush their teeth twice a day and make regular visits to a pediatric dentist. These healthy habits can help reduce the risks of developing cavities and serious dental issues. Using fluoride toothpaste is also an important step in childhood dental care that can add an extra…

When A Pediatric Root Canal May Be Necessary

A pediatric root canal is sometimes necessary to prevent the loss of a decayed or damaged baby tooth. Although the goal is to prevent dental cavities and tooth infections, they can still develop, especially in young children (who, on average, are more prone to cavities than teens and adults). It is essential to quickly detect…

Preventing Childhood Tooth Decay: Tips From A Pediatric Dentist

A pediatric dentist can help prevent tooth decay. Early dental checkups will enable the dentist to provide treatments that can make this possible. Your dentist can guide you and your child on how to keep teeth and gums healthy. Here are some effective tips on how to prevent childhood tooth decay straight from a pediatric…

The Importance Of Early Cavity Treatment For Kids

Many parents neglect early cavity treatment for kids, as they may feel that it is not essential because the child’s teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced by permanent teeth, anyway. However, diagnosing and treating cavities in kids as early as possible is incredibly important. In this review, we discuss the reasons that early…

Recent Posts

Caring For Baby Teeth:   Tips For Parents From A Kids Dentist

Caring For Baby Teeth: 3 Tips For Parents From A Kids Dentist

Wondering what a kids dentist recommends for baby teeth? Read on to learn more. Giving children the best oral health care is one of the most important jobs parents have. The ideal kids' dentist will lay the foundation for healthy gums and teeth for life. Keeping your child's smile healthy requires following a specific routine.…

Ask A Pediatric Dentist: When Your Child Should Start Using Toothpaste With Fluoride?

Ask A Pediatric Dentist: When Your Child Should Start Using Toothpaste With Fluoride?

Children, who are particularly prone to tooth decay, should brush their teeth twice a day and make regular visits to a pediatric dentist. These healthy habits can help reduce the risks of developing cavities and serious dental issues. Using fluoride toothpaste is also an important step in childhood dental care that can add an extra…