Are you looking to help your child establish good daily dental practices? Here, we’ll give you some fun ways to create healthy oral habits for kids.
Bring Entertainment to Brushing Time
The American Dental Association recommends that everyone brush their teeth for two minutes each time they brush. That may not be a lot of time, but to your child it can seem like an eternity, especially if the activity isn’t something they enjoy. There are a lot of great resources online like fun videos that are specifically made to entertain kids while they brush their teeth for the full two minutes. If you want to make your own entertainment, you can play your child’s favorite song while they brush, or even make up your own song. You could also do something extra creative and write an adventure story that you can read aloud to your child as they brush, keeping them engaged and brushing.
Bring Favorite Characters to the Brushing Party
Another great way to get your child excited about brushing their teeth is by personalizing their oral health care routine with their favorite characters. Whether they are into cars or dolls, Disney or Sesame Street, there is a toothbrush with the characters they love. Make them feel even more in control of the tooth brushing situation by having them come to the store to pick out the toothbrush for themselves. And don’t just stop at toothbrushes. Manufacturers also make toothpaste tubes for kids featuring their favorite characters and fun flavors.
Positive Reinforcement
Another great way to encourage your child to maintain healthy oral habits is to provide an incentive. While we do not recommend incentivizing your child with sweets or candies, you can motivate them in many other ways. Create a sticker chart that allows them to place a sticker every time they brush their teeth for the full two minutes. The stickers can be redeemable for whatever works best to motivate your child such as extra cuddling time or going to the library to pick out a book. However you decide to positively reinforce your child’s healthy oral habits, it can go a long way to get them excited about brushing their teeth and then sticking with the routine.
Visit Us at Simply Smile Family Dentistry
Taking your child for regular checkups and cleanings is also a vital part of creating healthy oral habits for kids. Call us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!
