Choosing A Toothbrush For Your Child

pediatric dental Alexandria

At the Center for Dental Anesthesia in Alexandria VA, we are sometimes asked how to select a 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, you know what we mean. To name just a few of the available types, 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 selecting a toothbrush for a child, it’s important to 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 manage an adult size brush better than a short, narrow child-size brush. If you are unsure, ask us.

Is your child’s toothbrush and brushing technique doing the job? Schedule an exam with us to find out. Our hygienists help our patients of all ages learn proper brushing techniques.

Beware of Firm Bristles

One crucial 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. But 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

At the Center for Dental Anesthesia in Alexandria VA, we recommend coming in for a dental cleaning every six months. Our services include family and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Contact Center for Dental Anesthesia:

703-379-6400

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

5284 Dawes Ave
Alexandria, Virginia
22311

 

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