(HealthDayNews) — Your child’s most important tool for preventing tooth decay and cavities is his or her toothbrush, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia reminds us.

Here are some pointers for toothbrush selection and care:

• When shopping for a toothbrush, select about three appropriate styles and then let your child choose the one he or she likes most.
• Make sure your child cleans his toothbrush thoroughly after each use, and stores it in a dry place.
• Change your child’s toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles become bent or stiff.
• If your child gets sick, replace the toothbrush after he’s recovered.