No matter how old your child is, getting them to brush, floss, and take care of their smile can be challenging. Whether it’s trying to make an active toddler sit still long enough to clean their teeth or pull your school-aged child away from their tablet so they can complete their nightly routine before bed, it’s a struggle most parents face. How can you make this process easier or even enjoyable for your kids? Discover 4 things you can do to help your children adopt good oral hygiene habits while also having fun.
Take Them Shopping
The next time you visit the grocery store, take them with you and let them pick out a new toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. With so many options available, they are likely to find one that catches their eye and makes them excited about brushing and flossing.
Many kids do not like the taste of mint toothpaste, so let them decide which flavor they prefer, as this will entice them to clean their teeth and help you avoid any complaints.
Just be sure before you buy that the ADA Seal of Approval is present on the packaging, as this ensures the product has been tested and is approved by the American Dental Association.
Offer Rewards
When your child successfully brushes and flosses their teeth for a designated period of time (i.e., one week, two weeks, etc.), reward them. This can be in the form of a new toy, a trip to the park or to see a movie, or treating them to their favorite restaurant for dinner.
Older children will naturally prefer different rewards, so you can adjust as needed, but be mindful of offering up any sweets, as this will only increase their risk of cavities.
Have a Dance Party
Instead of standing in the doorway and watching them brush their teeth, turn this morning and nighttime event into a dance party! Turn on some of their favorite music and start the timer, so they know how long they need to clean their teeth.
This not only livens up the atmosphere, but it also makes it more fun for them. Just keep an eye on how well they are cleaning their teeth. If assistance is needed, don’t hesitate to jump in.
Set an Example
Your child is likely to mimic what you do, so if you set an example by brushing and flossing your teeth every morning and night, they might just do the same. You can even bring everyone together in the same room to complete the twice-daily oral hygiene routine so that you and your children can hold each other accountable for brushing a full two minutes and flossing each tooth correctly.
Making oral hygiene fun for your kids will inspire them to maintain a healthier smile as they grow older. When they see and experience the benefit and reward of a cavity-free grin, they’ll want to make sure it lasts forever.
About the Author
Dr. Layne Benzley earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Brigham Young University before receiving his dental degree from the University of Iowa. He completed his pediatric dental specialty certificate from the Eastman Dental Center at the University of Rochester and is officially a board-certified pediatric dentist. Offering high-quality dental care to young smiles for more than a decade, he and his team at Castle Rock Smiles are eager to help parents and their kids get excited about oral hygiene. If you need help to make brushing and flossing fun, contact us at (303) 660-5373.