Which Tooth Brush is the Best for Children? Well, I usually say the one your child likes to use! That is, the one he is inspired to use properly and for a long enough time to get the job done. Basically, you can do pretty well with a regular plain toothbrush. There are not really any modifications that can overcome poor brushing technique. Yes, a smaller toothbrush for smaller children so it will fit their hand well. Also, softer bristles will do just fine. When you have braces, there are a few "orthodontic" brushes with altered bristles that might help. Having said that, studies indicate that many kids do a little better job with battery-powered toothbrushes. You know the "spin brushes". There are a lot of battery-powered toothbrushes that are suitable for children. I would advise picking one that your child likes to use. You don't have to spend a lot on the fancier ones. Now if you are an adult, the Sonicare and Braun (expensive fancy toothbrushes) do a really good job and may inspire you!
Spin Brushes (very popular):
*Addendum February 2012: FDA warning spin brushes potential choking hazard:
I've never run into any problem, but I wanted everyone to know this potential problem.
Sonicare and Braun (they compete with each other fiercely):
I don't know what this is:
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7 comments:
That last comment really made me laugh!!
Thank you for all the great advice.
Ditto. :)
It's really great to have such a frank and cheery explanation about dentist and orthodontic stuff right here in blog land... from a dentist himself! Seriously, I really appreciate this. Thanks for your enthusiasm and apparent desire to share it and information!
So many doctors and dentists I have seen mistakenly believe that I don't really want to know how something works, what all my options are, or why I would want something done. So thanks again! You rock!
Thank you for leaving such great comments on everything from toothbrushing to different child patients and diagnosis.
It's a great idea to make toothbrushing a fun thing, so having a toothbrush with a cool cartoon on it, or something else that the child likes, will most probably make toothbrushing more easily become a good, daily routine. Kids should, as soon as possible, get used to toothbrushing, and starting off with playing and making the brushing all positive and fun can be helpful. The parents can let the child brush a little bit first all by itself, and then take over and make sure all the plaque is gone. This way, often the parents have to be educated concering correct brushing technique...
Also, it's good to know when to replace a worn tooth brush. They say replace them once a month--that's likely a little soon for most folks. I would suggest to hold it up-- if it looks all smooshed and spread out, like someone was scrubbing the tile floor with it--it likely is time to replace. Certainly every few months.
Both my kids, 4y and 6y, have the new Sonicare for Kids toothbrush. It works really well for us.
We also use kids floss with handles(they come in all colors and designs) everyday in the evenings. If you get kids used to flossing at a young age it just becomes part of the tooth brushing process
We are using the Philips Sonicare for Kids and are very happy.
- Different power levels
- Nice colours for kids
- Plays a musical tone
I agree with Kevin. The Philips Sonicare HX6311/02 Sonicare for Kids is a great toothbrush
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