How to Choose the Best Oral Care Products for Kids

Choosing top-notch oral care products for your child is an easy way to obtain a high level of oral health.

Here are some tips on how to choose the best tools for your kids:

• Toothbrushes: Your child’s toothbrush should be small with soft bristles and should carry the ADA Seal of Approval. You might consider letting your child pick out his or her own toothbrush; if it features his or her favorite color or character, it may be easier to get him or her to brush.
• Toothpaste: Between age 1 and age 2, you should brush your child’s teeth with non-fluoride toothpaste. Children over age two should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with fluoride, which will help prevent cavities. Monitor your child’s brushing to make sure he or she doesn’t use too much.
• Floss: Young children will need an adult to floss for them. Once your child is old enough to floss on his or her own (around age 6 or 7), it may be easier to use a flossing aid; these come in bright colors and fun shapes to make them more fun for kids to use.
• Mouthwash: There are mouthwashes created specifically for kids, but kids need to be monitored when using it. Your child should not use mouthwash until he or she is old enough to rinse and spit it out rather than swallowing it, as swallowing mouthwash can cause health issues. Talk to your child’s dentist to determine whether your child should use a mouthwash.

Your child should begin visiting a pediatric dentist on a regular basis as soon as his or her first tooth comes in. The first dental appointment is a great time to ask questions and get recommendations for products that will benefit your child’s oral health.

By making a few good choices, you can keep your child’s teeth and gums as healthy as possible.