The right toothbrush will help your child effectively care for their teeth, minimize trips to the dentist, and establish good dental care practices that will serve them well for the rest of their lives. However, there are many children's toothbrushes on the market today, and selecting the right option can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips for identifying the best one.

How to Choose a Child's Toothbrush

1. Match Brush Size to Mouth Size

Many toothbrushes have age recommendations, but different kids have different mouth sizes. In general, the brush head should fit easily between their cheek and rear molars and be able to reach around to the backside of the rear molars on each side. When moving in a circular motion, bristles need to clean the surface of the tooth as fully as possible, without missing any spots. Toothbrushes are not usually overly expensive, so you may want to buy a few different sizes and let your child experiment with what feels right and offers the most comprehensive—yet comfortable—reach.

2. Go for Softer Bristles

Bristles come in firm, medium, and soft varieties. Since brushing on their own may be a new experience for your child, it's always best to select softer bristles. Brushing will be easier, and there will be less risk of injuring sensitive gum tissue. Show your child how to brush gently, as overaggressive movements can erode enamel and increase the risk of teeth sensitivity and other issues that require a dentist visit.

3. Choose an Easy-Grip Handle

A toothbrush should fit comfortably in your child's hand. It shouldn't be so bulky that it makes brushing unwieldy and difficult, but it shouldn't be so small that it requires a lot of extra effort just to cover the expanse of a tooth. Either situation can make brushing a chore, which will only discourage good habits. This is a situation where you might want to purchase a few different brushes with varying handle sizes, and let your child determine the right fit.

Your child's dentist can give you personalized toothbrush suggestions. Nelson Hatanaka, D.D.S., has been serving the Honolulu, HI, area since 1983. Dr. Hatanaka and his team offer a variety of dental services, including exams, fillings, teeth whitening, and restorations. Call (808) 395-1922 to make an appointment.