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When it comes to the health of our children, part of the role of being a parent is encouraging a healthy lifestyle. From the foods we eat to the amount of exercise we get, the habits that are formed at a young age can stick with children throughout their entire life.
Children’s dentistry is extremely important to the overall health of your child. Beyond regular dental checkups with a dentist, many other activities can impact your child’s dental health. Along with monitoring their diet by limiting sugary foods and drinks that result in cavities, daily brushing and regular flossing must also be part of the strategy.
But it isn’t always easy to get kids on board. Here are some tips for getting your kids to brush every day.
1. Soft bristle toothbrushes make a great teething toy for babies.
While it isn’t recommended to begin brushing your child’s teeth with toothpaste until around two years old, a soft bristle toothbrush can offer your little one some relief when teeth come through while also cleaning existing teeth. Like anything that goes into your child’s mouth, always monitor your baby when the toothbrush is being chewed on.
2. Show them that you do it.
Kids learn by example, so make sure that you’re practicing what you preach. The best way to teach your children how to brush and when to brush is to be there to show them what you do every day. If you’re not a twice daily brusher, having children is a great reason to become one! Now not only are you teaching your kids how to brush, but you’re making your own dental care a priority as well.
3. Make brushing part of the morning and bedtime routines.
When getting the child ready for the day and when it’s time for bed, make brushing their teeth a regular part of the process. The trick is to be consistent on when this happens each day and always be present to help them brush when they are just getting started.
4. Let them pick their own toothbrush.
There are a number of toothbrush brands that have superheroes printed on them, or have interesting shapes and even some that play music. The more your child likes the toothbrush, the more they will want to “play” with it. This will help make the process feel less like a choir and more like playtime.
5. Make it fun.
Every parent knows that it takes some creativity and persuasion to get kids to do what’s best for their health. Try to make brushing teeth a fun and playful event in the day. Make them laugh by letting the foam from the toothpaste spill all over your mouth and encourage them to do the same. It doesn’t have to be pretty, but whatever you can do to make brushing fun will help solidify it into their daily lives.
Those are just a few ideas but whatever creative ways you can think of to get your child to brush is great. The only thing we recommend is that they brush twice a day, for at least two minutes each time using a gentle circular motion an all areas of the teeth.
For any questions about children’s dentistry or to make an appointment for your child, contact us today.