If you want to start your child off right with a healthy mouth, then you likely want them to begin investing in their own oral care as soon as possible. This involves getting your son or daughter the right toothbrush for them. There are a few mistakes you can make as a parent when it comes to picking out a toothbrush, so keep reading so you know how to avoid them.

Going Straight To The Electric Toothbrush

You may know that electric toothbrushes are much better when it comes to cleaning food and plaque from the teeth. And while this is true, the toothbrushes can be quite scary for toddlers. Electric toothbrushes make some noise, and since young children are often sensitive to new and strong sensations, starting them off with an electric toothbrush may cause them to dislike brushing altogether. 

So, start off with a regular toothbrush, and when you think your child may be ready for an electric one, you can switch. Many experts say that it is best to wait until your child is at least three years old, meaning they should have been using a traditional toothbrush for a few years. Start off with a pulsar toothbrush that vibrates slightly and then move to a child-sized electric toothbrush. Do not try to use an adult one. The long neck can cause your child to gag, and the brush head itself is usually too big as well.

Child toothbrushes are ones that feature cartoon characters, action figures, lights, and music, so consider allowing your son or daughter choose their own product.

Picking A Hard-Bristled Brush

As a parent, you may understand that your child may not brush as enthusiastically as they should. In your attempt to encourage brushing, you may purchase one of the hard-bristled brushes you see at the store. However, this is not a good idea. The harder nylon bristles can cause miniature tears to the soft gum tissues, and the gums may start to recede as inflammation develops. Pick out a product with soft bristles instead.

If you are concerned that your child is not brushing well enough, then invest in a plaque-disclosing product like a tablet or a rinse that turns the plaque a dark color so your child knows where to brush and how long it takes to get the sticky film off the teeth. 

If you want to know more about picking the right toothbrush for your son or daughter, make sure to contact a children's dental care specialist at a clinic like Dentistry For Children & Adolescents.