- Start Them Young! – In order for your child to learn how to properly brush their teeth, start by teaching them at a younger age. This allows them to develop consistency and routine while also getting plenty of brushing practice in! Make sure your child knows that brushing your teeth leads to a healthy smile. Also, be sure to discuss cavities, bad breath, toothy decay, and all of the other negatives that arise from improper tooth brushing.
- Make it Fun! – This aspect is truly key. If you can make tooth brushing fun and not be viewed as a chore, children will be more inclined to do it. Do it with them! Here’s an idea: pick a song he or she loves that is about two minutes in length. Then you both have to brush your teeth for the entire duration of the song!
- Let Them Pick Out Their Toothpaste and Toothbrush – Just like kids get excited about picking out what they get to wear, let them pick out their toothpaste and toothbrush (just be sure to purchase a toothpaste with fluoride in it!). This way they have a flavor of toothpaste they like and a toothbrush they are excited about!
- Compliment Them! – When their teeth look good, say so! Positive reinforcement is never a bad idea with children. If you make them feel like brushing their teeth is a skill they are good at, they will be more apt to keep doing it!
- Find the Right Dentist – Find a dentist who your child likes and is good at working with kids. You can even ask the dentist to compliment the child’s brushing. Your dentist can also give you tips and tricks for your child’s oral hygiene care.
These simple tips should help a great deal in helping to instill good oral hygiene practices in your child. Their teeth will thank you. Tooth brushing is an important skill, but it doesn’t have to be a chore! If you have any questions about tooth brushing and oral hygiene, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.