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Tips to Encourage Kids to BrushAs you know, brushing is one of the most important parts of keeping your oral health in tip-top shape. It is key to form good oral hygiene habits early in childhood to give your kids the best head start they can get on their continued oral health. That being said, it can be difficult to get kids to brush at all, let alone with good technique. Here are a few tips that will help you to develop your children’s brushing habits properly. Start Them YoungIt is important that your child is used to having their teeth cleaned. We recommend that as soon as they have teeth you begin wiping them with a clean cloth at least once a day. Not only will this clean their teeth, it will allow them to get used to the feeling of brushing. It is important that this be something that helps them come to enjoy brushing so it is best not to do when they are fussy.Another great way to ease your young child into brushing is by presenting a good oral hygiene routine to them. If they can sit with you in the morning or evening while you brush your teeth and go about your everyday routine, they often will want to mimic you. What is more fun than getting to do what mom and dad does? Modeling proper brushing and flossing techniques can also help them to understand the right ways to brush and floss. Make it FunThere are so many great ways to help make an oral hygiene routine enjoyable for kids these days. There are lots of various characters on kids brushes, flosses, and toothpastes. From superheroes to fun songs and lightshows within toothbrushes. There is sure to be something in the oral hygiene aisle that will make them excited to brush.Try to pick a toothpaste with fluoride in it as it goes a long way to help keep their teeth strong. Also, it may take one or two toothpastes before they find one that has a pleasing taste or feel. You don’t brush your teeth with toothpaste you don’t like and it certainly makes it easier for them to brush with one they enjoy. Also, a reward system is a great way to encourage enthusiasm! Stickers and fun prizes can go long way to make something that might seem boring more fun. Supervise ThemMake sure that you are present to supervise their brushing and flossing sessions until they get the routine down. Often they will try their best, but still miss some spots. Having you around will help to ensure they get the technique right. It’s also a good idea to be present to ensure they don’t put anything in their mouth that they shouldn’t. Things to really keep a close eye on are some of the different flossing tools available on the market, as they can present a choking hazard.Please give u a call today at (541) 756-0156 to setup an appointment for your child to see us today. We are excited to help with their oral health education! |
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