Sometimes parents think their child doesn’t need a toothbrush until they’re one or two years old, but that just isn’t the case. Your child needs a toothbrush as soon as they have a tooth to brush!
Before your baby gets their first tooth, keep their gums healthy by gently wiping them down with a damp washcloth after feedings.
Once that first tooth pops through, it’s time to buy their very first toothbrush. It should be a child-sized brush with soft bristles and a rounded head. Or you can buy a “parents’ toothbrush” that has a longer handle, making it easier for you to handle.
Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day, using a pea-sized amount of baby-safe toothpaste (sometimes called “teeth and gum cleaner”). This tot-friendly toothpaste is easy to find in any drugstore, and is designed specifically for children under two because it doesn’t contain fluoride.
When your baby gets older, it may be more of a struggle to brush their teeth. Try to involve them by letting them choose their own new toothbrush at the store -- there are plenty of options with their favourite characters on them, and even toothbrushes that light up and play music.
A child’s mouth is rapidly developing all of the time, so always check the toothbrush’s packaging to ensure you’re getting the right one for their age -- with a rounded head and soft bristles.
Just like with your own toothbrush, it’s important to replace your child’s toothbrush every three months -- and after they recover from a cold or flu.
To learn more about your kids’ toothbrushes and how to choose the right one, talk to us today.