Caring for children’s teeth from the very start is one of the best ways to protect their long-term health. Even before all the baby teeth have come through, regular brushing with the right toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste helps prevent decay and sets the stage for healthy habits that last into adulthood.
Choosing the right toothbrush for your child can feel confusing with so many sizes, shapes and styles available. The best brush depends on your child’s age and stage of development, as well as how much help they still need from you. In this guide, we provide tips for each age group.
0–2 years (first teeth)
What to use
- A manual brush with a very small head and extra-soft bristles. A chunky, easy-grip handle helps you control it.
- A silicone finger brush or a clean cloth at the very first tooth eruption. Move to a regular brush as soon as your baby accepts it.
- A baby-specific electric brush can help some wriggly toddlers. Use it gently and always with your supervision.
Toothpaste and fluoride
- Use a smear the size of a grain of rice.
- Choose toothpaste with at least 1,000 ppm fluoride.
Recommended products
3–5 years (preschool)
What to use
- A small head with extra-soft bristles and a handle your child can grip.
- Manual or electric is fine with your supervision. Timers and pressure control can help with technique.
Toothpaste and fluoride
- Use a pea-sized amount.
- Choose toothpaste with 1,350 to 1,500 ppm fluoride.
Recommended products
- Aquafresh Little Teeth toothbrush (3 to 5)
- Colgate Kids 3 to 5 Super Soft
- Oral-B Kids Electric (3 plus) with a small round head and built-in timer
6–9 years (early school years)
What to use
- A small head with soft bristles and a slightly longer handle for growing hands.
- Manual or electric is fine; many children brush more effectively with a junior electric brush that has a small head and a gentle action.
- Kid-sized replacement heads.
Toothpaste and fluoride
- Use a pea-sized amount.
- Choose toothpaste with 1,350 to 1,500 ppm fluoride.
Recommended products
- Oral-B Junior Electric 6 plus
- TePe Select Compact X Soft
- Wisdom Step by Step 6 plus
- Philips Sonicare for Kids with the smaller brush head
10–12 years & teens
What to use
- A small or medium head with soft bristles. A slightly longer handle suits growing hands.
- Manual or electric is fine. Many preteens and teens do better with an electric brush that has a small head, a timer and pressure control.
- Junior-sized replacement heads.
Toothpaste and fluoride
- Use a pea-sized amount.
- Choose toothpaste with 1,350 to 1,500 ppm fluoride.
Recommended products
- Oral B junior or teen sized electric with timer and pressure control
- Philips Sonicare for Kids or a compact adult head on a handle they like
- Compact manual options such as TePe Select Compact Soft
- Orthodontic heads or single tuft brushes for brace wearers
Arrange a check-up for your child
If you are based in London or the South-East of the UK, book a children’s dental check-up at Gallions Reach today by contacting our friendly reception team. Whether you need advice on choosing the right toothbrush, fluoride guidance or help with braces care, our experienced team will provide personalised support to keep your child’s smile healthy. Arrange an appointment now using our quick and confidential online form.
