Important Toothbrush Basics to Remember

Get your child to brush his pearly whites by giving him a toothbrush that he will absolutely adore: a "fun" toothbrush with brilliant colors and wacky shapes. But fun isn't the only requirement; here are other brush essentials to keep in mind:

• Choose a toothbrush that's small enough for your child to hold comfortably. A long one may strain his arm while brushing.

• Look for small, rounded head. A big headed brush may not reach the tight areas of his small mouth.

• Change toothbrush every three months. By then, the bristles are worn out, less effective, and may also harbor harmful bacteria.
  

Tips for Caring your child's teeth

Heres a nice article I found from a magazine, its about how to care for your child's teeth.

• Do not give your infant or small child a bottle of milk, formula, juice or any product that contains sugar when putting them to bed. The sugar causes tooth decay.

• Encourage your baby to start drinking from a cup around 9 months or shortly thereafter.

• Clean your child's teeth with a gauze pad or soft cloth when they first surface. Once they break through, use a soft children toothbrush with water only.

• Encourage your child to stop sucking their thumb or fingers. See your dentist if you're unsuccessful.

• Around 1-2 years of age a dot of toothpaste may be used on the child's toothbrush. Encourage your child not to swallow the toothpaste and rinse well with water.

• By age 3 or 4, children should be able to brush their won teeth. You should check your children teeth to ensure proper brushing.

• Have your child brush their teeth twice a day.

• Gently floss between your child's teeth until they learn the proper technique.

• Schedule regular dental checkup for your child as early as 2 years of age. (Make sure your dentist and hygienist work well with children).
  

• Be an example, brush and floss regularly and maintain regular dental appointments.