Good hygiene doesn’t have to be like pulling teeth! Here is how to make dental care fun for your kids.
Developing healthy brushing and flossing habits early does more than keep your child’s teeth and gums in great shape now; healthy brushing habits can last a lifetime. Proper brushing habits and regular well-visits to a pediatric dentist can help your child build lifelong habits and skills — and prevent painful cavities, too. Here is how to make dental care fun for your kids.
Make it Rewarding
You know the benefit of good brushing habits that last a lifetime, but offering some small but interesting rewards along the way can ensure your child is on board for brushing as well. Creating a simple chart and providing a small reward after a week of successful brushing can go a long way towards success, according to toothpaste brand Colgate. You don’t have to spend a lot, a simple trip to the park or a small, inexpensive item will often do the trick. This approach pays off in two ways — it keeps your child interested and motivated and it instills a lifelong habit, too.
Time it Right to Make Dental Care Fun
Nighttime brushing won’t be fun if you argue over it or try to squeeze it in like homework. Instead, make brushing one of the last things you do, preferably after a soothing bath and just before bed. If you read aloud or do another quiet activity together before bed, close out the day with a final toothbrushing, then proceed directly to the preferred activity. It won’t take long for you both to associate brushing with an enjoyable activity and a peaceful end to the day.
Give Plenty of Choices
Tooth brushing is more fun when there are options — use a favorite character brush one day, then mix it up with a timed or electric brush the next. Offer a selection of tubes of toothpaste, flosses, and other items to provide your child with some choices. According to Oral-B, letting your child take the lead allows him to choose the options he likes best and makes brushing an interesting and fun part of the day.
The brushing habits you build now will last a lifetime, so taking the time to make things fun can improve your child’s health now — and as they grow up. Get in touch today to schedule a well-visit or to chat about any brushing concerns you have. Our mission is to help your child stay healthy and develop enduring habits that will last a lifetime.