Let’s face it – brushing twice a day can be difficult to weave into your child’s routine. Brushing their teeth can be scary for a child, or even seem like a chore. Luckily, there are a few ways to take away the negative stigma and turn teeth brushing into a fun activity. Here are 5 tips for teaching kids to brush their teeth (and enjoy doing it)!
When Teaching Kids to Brush Their Teeth:
1. Start Early
Like every life-long habit, it’s best to start teaching children to brush their teeth early on. By doing this, you can teach children to become comfortable with the feeling of brushing their own teeth. Work with your child to develop a consistent routine twice a day.
Children are avid knowledge seekers. You’ll probably find your child asking why they should brush their teeth. Take advantage of this teaching opportunity! You can use it to educate your child on cavities, bad breath, and overall oral health. Encourage your child that brushing twice a day leads to a beautiful, healthy smile.
2. Brush With Your Child
Making brushing a fun experience is easy when you share it with your child. Children are prone to copying, so let them copy your healthy habit of brushing twice a day. Doing this gives you an opportunity to make sure your child is brushing properly and for the right amount of time. You can create a game out of brushing your teeth or put on your child’s favorite song and hum along together while brushing. Your opportunities are endless!
3. Give Your Child Fun Options
Letting your child personalize his or her brushing experience can make brushing a fun routine. A lot of oral hygiene brands have products that are geared towards children, such as fun toothbrushes and yummy-tasting toothpastes. Allow your child to pick out a variety of oral hygiene products from the store. Having a few different toothbrushes to choose from can make brushing their teeth a fun experience for your child.
4. Encourage Good Oral Hygiene
In this process of getting into an oral hygiene routine, remember to constantly cheer your child on. Reward good brushing skills with compliments, hugs, or a dance party – whatever encourages your child to keep up the good work.
5. Get Your Dentist on Board
When it comes to encouraging good oral hygiene, having multiple cheerleaders is better than one. Asking your dentist to give your child a boost of encouragement at their next appointment can make all the difference. Your dentist can give you and your child tips and tricks for maximizing their dental hygiene routine as well as some extra toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss they’ll be excited to try out. Getting your child comfortable with regular dental visits is a great way to make oral hygiene an enjoyable routine.
Do you have a child who is ready for their first appointment? Click here to make your appointment with one of our kind, caring dentists!