Don’t be Spooked by These Dental Treatments
If the thought of going to the dentist gives you the shivers, you're not alone. Many people feel anxious about dental visits. There's good news, though. This frightened feeling is...
Getting your kids to brush their teeth properly can sometimes feel like pulling teeth (pun intended). But, establishing good oral hygiene habits early on is foundational for your child’s long-term dental health.
Fortunately, with a little creativity and these genius hacks, you can make tooth brushing time something your kids actually look forward to.
Make It a Game
One surefire way to get kids excited about brushing is to make a game out of it. Try setting a timer and challenging them to brush until the timer goes off. Or have a dance party – crank up their favorite song and have them brush to the rhythm. You can even encourage your child to invent their own tooth-brushing games. The key is to make it fun and engaging.
Let Them Choose Their Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Kids love having a say in things. So next time you’re due for new toothbrushes, bring your child along and let them pick out their own. Look for kid-friendly designs like their favorite cartoon characters or colors.
The same goes for toothpaste – these days there are lots of flavors beyond mint that appeal to kids’ taste buds. Letting them have some autonomy can go a long way in getting them to actually use the toothbrush and toothpaste regularly.
Use Positive Reinforcement
A little encouragement can work wonders. Consider making a sticker chart to track their brushing habits and reward them for a job well done. Or have a special prize box filled with small toys or treats that they get to choose from after a week of great brushing. Praise and small rewards will motivate them to keep up the good work.
Make it Quality Time
Sometimes kids just want to feel grown up and do things on their own. But, especially for younger children, brushing alongside a parent or older sibling can be really helpful. They can mirror your technique and you can gently guide them as needed. Make it a bonding activity you do together every morning and night.
Tell a Tale
Storytime is a great opportunity to normalize and encourage good oral hygiene. Read books with your kids that positively depict characters taking care of their teeth. Or make up your own stories – your child can be the starring character vanquishing the evil cavity villains and saving the day with their trusty toothbrush. A little creativity can help instill good habits.
There’s an App for That
Embrace technology as a tool to foster good brushing habits. There are numerous apps designed to encourage kids to brush better. They often include features like timers, animations, and rewards for good brushing streaks. Find a kid-friendly one and let them interact with it during brush time.
Model Good Habits
It’s no secret that kids learn by example. That’s why it’s so important for parents to model good oral hygiene habits. If your child sees you prioritizing brushing and flossing regularly, they’ll be much more likely to follow suit. Explain why it’s important that the whole family takes good care of their teeth.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits
Even with the best at-home habits, it is just as important for kids to see a dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can help reinforce good brushing techniques, spot any issues early, and help your child develop a positive association with dental visits. Make sure to schedule checkups every six months.
Proper oral hygiene is a habit best established early. It can save your child from many oral issues down the line. And while teaching proper oral care can sometimes be challenging, remember, your child’s lifelong dental health is in your hands.
If you have any concerns about your child’s oral hygiene or just want to make sure they’re on the right track, don’t hesitate to contact us!
