Brushing teeth is an essential step in cleaning teeth and maintaining oral health. Brushing teeth may seem simple, but in reality, there is also a lot of knowledge involved. To do a good job, one must first sharpen their tools. Today, we will tell you how children of different ages should choose the right toothbrush and prepare for brushing their teeth correctly.
How should children of different age groups choose toothbrushes
No teeth or just teeth
The use of finger toothbrushes (also known as baby toothbrushes) is mostly made of non-toxic silicone or soft gauze.
Baby teeth gradually grow out
When a child grows 2-4 teeth, a silicone toothbrush can be used. The silicone toothbrush head has elasticity and moderate softness, making it easy for the child to bite. When 8-12 teeth grow, use a toothbrush with pointed bristles, which also has the functions mentioned above and can be used for babies to practice brushing their teeth. Usually, the bristles are very soft and will not scratch the delicate gums of children.
2-4 years old
Children aged 2-4 already have a neat set of baby teeth, but they are also at a high risk of dental caries. Parents should cultivate the habit of brushing teeth in their children during this stage. At this point, choose a toothbrush with a small brush head and soft bristles. Young children have smaller palms and underdeveloped muscles, so the handle of a toothbrush should be thicker and fatter.
5-6 years old
At the age of 5-6, children enter the period of tooth replacement, and the first permanent molar has grown. At this time, a cup shaped bristle toothbrush should be chosen, with soft brush edges and small brush heads that can completely surround each tooth to achieve thorough cleaning. At this point, parents should gradually teach their children to brush their teeth independently, but remember to help them double check if they have brushed thoroughly after brushing.
7-8 years old
After the age of 7-8, children are in the stage of tooth replacement, with both deciduous and permanent teeth present. In addition, the gaps between teeth are large, and if brushing teeth is not taken seriously, it is easy to develop cavities. Therefore, toothbrushes with soft bristles, mixed design, and smaller brush heads should be chosen to help thoroughly clean teeth and gaps. After the tooth replacement is completed, teenagers can choose a health toothbrush.