Toothbrushing is one of the most fundamental aspects of maintaining good oral hygiene. And getting children in the habit of brushing while they are young can lead to a lifetime of good oral health.
You want your kids to want to brush their teeth. So, you’ve got to find ways to make it less challenging and dull - and more fun. Let your children look forward to this time by making it playful, encouraging, and special. All you need are a few fun activities.
Go Shopping
Letting your children feel like they are part of the process is important. That means letting your children pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste can encourage them to use it. It will give them something to look forward to each time they brush, too.
Read Books
Spend time reading about tooth brushing. There are many children's books that offer stories about characters learning the importance of brushing their teeth. Check a few out at your local library and have storytime to get your children prepared for brushing their own teeth.
Play Music
Who wouldn’t love to go to a toothbrushing dance party? Put on some tunes and dance around the bathroom - carefully, of course. Even try singing while brushing - and looking in the mirror. Music is always a great motivator. And the more you can make this time enjoyable, the more likely your kid is to engage in good oral hygiene.
Brush Together
Kids look up to their parents and they get excited to spend time together - even if it is brushing their teeth. Make this something that you do together - and make it light. If you are up for it, you can even practice on each other or on a stuffed toy. Hand over your toothbrush and let your children practice brushing your teeth. Then, switch. As you brush their teeth, they will know how it is supposed to feel.
Besides, your children will mimic you. And if they see you brushing your teeth, they will want to do it, too.
Have Fun with Timers
Your children should be brushing for at least two minutes. He or she may or may not hit all the right spots. And that’s ok. The point right now is to make brushing a habit. So, rather than stare at a clock, consider finding other ways to count out the two minutes, such as a toothbrush timer.
You can always use other videos of your choosing or songs that will encourage them to keep brushing until it's over.
Use a Rewards System
A reward chart can act as both a reminder and a motivator. Don’t go all out buying gifts for a week of tooth brushing. Instead, keep it easy. Kids get just as excited over seeing a cool sticker on a chart.
Making routine dental appointments starting early also plays a large role in your children’s future oral health. Dream Smiles wants to be a part of it.
Contact us today at 301-327-1003 to get started. Or request an appointment online.