Three-sided toothbrushes
Overview
This brush has three heads, so it cleans the inside, outside, and top of the teeth all at once. You can choose between small or regular sizes, and the bristles can be soft or standard. If buying online, look for "soft bristle" if that's what you need.
For some autistic children, three-sided toothbrushes may be useful if:
Your child has heightened sensory sensitivity
This is because it reduces the need for repetitive motions which can be overwhelming. They have soft or average versions, depending on the child’s sensory needs.
Your child likes the movement of the toothbrush around the mouth (back and forth)
Electric toothbrushes require you to hold the toothbrush still and brush your child’s teeth one at a time. If your child likes the movement of back and forth then a manual toothbrush may be preferred.
You are looking for a brush that is easier to use
Three-sided brushes are also useful if a child does not allow an adult to help, they are easier to use and less technique sensitive.
Your child has a strong gag reflex
As you can get to all the surfaces of the teeth at the same time, using this type of toothbrush can help save time.
Your child can only brush for a short period of time
All surfaces of the tooth are brushed at the same time, which can make the process quicker.
Your child bites the toothbrush
Some parents have reported that this type of toothbrush is easier to slide across the teeth than other toothbrushing types.
Downloadable resources
Here are some downloadable resources with tips on introducing a manual toothbrush, making brushing more comfortable, and developing motor skills.
How to guide a three-sided toothbrush
Here’s a visual guide from Mini Mouth Care Matters on how to help your child use a manual toothbrush correctly. This is part of a wider set of resources for professionals working in Special Education Settings. Further information is available here.
Key messages
Watch again
Jump straight to what parents and early years professionals have said about different toothbrushes and how you can adapt them.
