Parents Guide to Toothbrushes and Toothpaste [Pediatric Dentistry]
Pediatric dentistry can be hard for you to discuss with your young child. Your child may not be interested in oral care at this time. However, these are the formative years in your child’s life. The habits your child develops now will stay with them for the rest of your child’s life. The good news is that there are some guidelines available for picking out the right oral care tools.
Babies
Many babies’ teeth will start to come through around six months. As soon as the first tooth comes through, parents should begin to brush the teeth. Parents should pick out a toothbrush that is designed for babies. These toothbrushes have very soft bristles and small heads designed for babies’ tender mouths.
Parents can use a tiny amount of toothpaste — about the size of a grain of rice. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), toothpaste with fluoride can be used. This will help strengthen the teeth. There are many flavors besides mint available, such as tropical flavors. Many babies do not like the strong flavor of mint.
Preschoolers
By the time a child reaches the preschool years, the child will want to do everything themselves. This is a good time for a child to take over tooth brushing. To encourage interest in good oral habits, a preschooler can pick out a fun toothbrush and toothpaste. When children take the lead, they are more likely to keep the habit.
The right toothbrush for a preschooler will be a little larger than one for babies. This can help children efficiently cover all surfaces of the teeth. Children can pick out a fun toothpaste or one that adults use. Parents should still supervise preschoolers who are brushing their teeth. Parents must confirm that their children are brushing at least twice a day.
Elementary-age children
By the time a child reaches elementary school, the child may have a more difficult schedule than a preschooler. Homework and extracurricular activities can both take up a child’s time. Elementary school-aged children are old enough to use electric toothbrushes. There are many fun types of electric toothbrushes, ranging from superheroes to princesses.
A child in elementary school can use any type of toothpaste with fluoride in it. Many natural types of toothpaste do not have unhealthy chemicals in them. Parents should not have to stand in the bathroom with the child during toothbrushing. However, parents may want to set a timer to remind children to brush for two minutes.
Visit a pediatric dentistry practice today
It can be difficult to choose the right toothpaste and toothbrushes for your child. However, allowing your child to pick out interesting toothbrushes can help improve your child’s interest. As long as the toothbrush has soft bristles and is small enough for a child’s mouth, you can choose many types. A pediatric dentistry practice can help you and your child learn the right way to brush your child’s teeth.
Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 246-7255 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
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