One of the best things you can teach your children early on is the importance of dental hygiene. However, we understand how scary and intimidating brushing teeth can be for young children as it is a new experience. That’s why it’s so important to ensure teeth brushing is a positive experience for your kids, so they continue the habit all throughout their childhood, into adulthood.
Here are some tricks and tips you can use to make the experience more fun for your kids!
Start Early
The earlier your children are taught to brush their teeth, the less daunting the task seems later on. We recommend using an infant toothbrush with just warm water to gently brush their teeth when they first begin sprouting. As they get older, you can slowly integrate children’s toothpaste with added fluoride and other steps, like flossing and mouthwash.
Once you have a good routine established, you can then explain the importance of brushing. It’s important that as kids grow older they not only understand the how, but the why as well.
Join Them
As we all know, kids copy everything we say and do (sometimes to our dismay). So, if you’re looking to teach your child the importance of brushing your teeth, grab a toothbrush and join them! And feel free to make it fun, too. Set a timer for 2 minutes and see who can make the most toothpaste suds. Or, have a smiling contest after to see who has the pearliest whites. The more enjoyable the experience, the more eager your kids will be to repeat the process.
Let Them Pick Out Their Supplies
Luckily, there are countless toothbrushes and toothpastes out there that are marketed for kids. In fact, with there being so many different options available, it’s not a bad idea to let your child select a few different options. Maybe they don’t enjoy the taste of mint toothpaste but bubblegum does the trick. Or perhaps they prefer spinning toothbrushes over regular manual ones. Having options and letting them select gives them more power and autonomy.
Find a Dentist Early On
Just like brushing their teeth, the earlier your child sees a dentist, the more familiar the experience becomes, and therefore less daunting. We recommend their first visit occur before their first birthday, whenever their teeth first become visible.
Compliment Them Often
Nothing motivates kids more than having a personal cheerleader to celebrate their successes! When trying to get your kids into the habit of brushing their teeth, compliment them often. Tell them what a good brusher they are, how strong and healthy their teeth look, and more. Positive reinforcement goes a long way!
Brushing your kid’s teeth doesn’t have to be a dreadful experience anymore! Keep these pediatric brushing tips in your back pocket to use when introducing them to healthy habits. And remember, the sooner you make it a habit, the easier it will go.
And don’t forget to schedule your child’s twice-yearly appointment! Contact us today to schedule.
