Visiting a pediatric dentist at an early age is a good start for children’s overall dental health. In addition to the biannual exams and cleanings, it is important that children practice good oral hygiene at home on a regular basis. However, getting kids to brush teeth twice a day can be challenging. Fortunately, there are kid-friendly toothbrushes and toothpastes that help make this healthy routine more fun.
Parents will brush kids’ teeth when they are really young, but as soon as the children can hold the brush themselves, kids usually want to do it themselves. Adult toothbrushes are too big for kids’ mouths, but there are numerous brushes that are designed specifically for children and are also playful and fun.
This type of brush is perfect for infants who only have a few teeth. It fits on the adult’s index finger and makes it easy to reach and brush around the teeth. Kids enjoy playing with puppets, so it is more like playtime than brush time.
BabyBaus is one recommended type of finger brush. Some benefits include:
Once the child is a little older, a manual brush will help reach the back teeth, and it is easy for kids to hold. When picking out a brush, some characteristics to look for include soft bristles, the correct size for the child’s age, an easy grip and fun colors.
Colgate is a good choice, as it offers a wide variety of styles. It is easy to find a brush that is soft enough for young gums, and there are many characters to choose from.
Many adults use an electric toothbrush, and kids typically want to copy what their parents do. In general, electric brushes are not appropriate for children 3 and younger, and the earliest recommended age is 5. When choosing an electric kind, look for one with a soft and small head, a lighter weight and a rubber handle grip for easy holding.
A pediatric dentist often recommends the Philips Sonicare for kids electric toothbrush, as it is designed for kids of all ages and is fun as well as practical. It also comes with an app that helps motivate and educate the child while brushing.
Brushing without toothpaste can be boring, and fortunately there are many kid-friendly options that taste good and encourage regular brushing.
A pediatric dentist often recommends a paste with fluoride to help strengthen the teeth. Because it should not be swallowed, it should not be used until the child knows to spit after brushing.
Crest Pro Health Stages kids is an affordable option, and it comes in a fun-looking tube with characters such as Mickey and Dory. It is also available in a variety of flavors such as strawberry, bubblegum and fruit burst.
Many parents do not want their kids to have fluoride or artificial flavors, dyes or sweeteners. There is a wide variety of natural options that can fight cavities.
Tom’s of Maine is generally easy to find in a variety of stores. The toothpaste is available in paste or gel, and there are flavors such as orange-mango, silly strawberry and fruitilicious.
Using the right toothbrush and toothpaste helps encourage healthy oral habits. There are various options for kids of all ages that are fun and motivating.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
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