Our team at Pediatric Dental Center is often asked how to select the most basic tool of oral hygiene – the toothbrush. Picking a toothbrush can be as hard as choosing a paint color, and there seems to be just as many choices.
If you have visited the dental section of your local grocery store in the Burlington, Kentucky area, you know what I am talking about. There are brushes with bristles of varying lengths, brushes that massage your gums, and brushes that change color when they are used up.
Choosing a Toothbrush for a Child
When picking a toothbrush for a child, make sure the brush feels comfortable in his or her hand. If the size and angle feel awkward, the child will be less likely to use it long enough to clean all areas of the mouth. Children do not necessarily need a child-sized toothbrush. Some kids can handle an adult size brush better than a short, narrow child-size brush. If you are unsure, ask your dentist.
Beware of Firm Bristles
One critical factor is the firmness of the bristles. Hard bristles may be more effective for cleaning burnt steak off a grill or hard water deposits off a shower floor. However, this does not hold true for your teeth. Medium and firm brushes can weaken your gums. Soft and extra-soft bristles are plenty stiff enough to wipe plaque, food particles, and surface stains from your teeth. Soft bristles also offer more flexibility for hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.
Schedule a Dental Cleaning
Remember, regular dental cleanings prevent and gum disease. Plus, your teeth will feel fantastic afterwards! Is your child’s toothbrush and brushing technique doing the job? Call us at Pediatric Dental Center, your state-of-the-art pediatric dentistry option in the Burlington and Crestview Hills, Kentucky areas, to schedule a pediatric dental cleaning. We are all about preventative care! Our team of friendly dental hygienists help our patients of all ages learn proper brushing techniques. Don’t procrastinate. Give us a call today!
Contact Pediatric Dental Center:
859-534-5640
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
5495 N Bend Rd Ste 102
Burlington, Kentucky
41005
