It is important to help your children build a solid foundation for their oral health. This ensures that they will get into the habit of appropriately caring for their teeth, which can prevent significant issues from occurring. It is important for everyone to brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. They must also floss once a day and obtain regular dental cleanings. Here are 5 tips for getting your kids to brush their teeth.
1. Start Early
Start taking your child to the dentist early on. Most dentists recommend that you begin bringing your child in for dental appointments as early as 6 months old. It is also important to ensure that they are brushing their teeth regularly. This will help them build the habit early on, which can create a solid foundation for their oral health.
2. Let them Choose
Though brushing their teeth isn’t optional, your children can still have choices regarding their oral hygiene routine. Allow them to choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste. This can help make them excited to brush their teeth.
3. Make it a Game
Making tooth brushing into a game can help encourage your children to brush. This can be something as simple as pretending there are monsters in their mouth that they have to brush away or can include something more involved.
4. Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is one of the best ways to build a good tooth-brushing habit. This can include giving them stickers whenever they brush their teeth and complimenting them on their brushing job. However, you should refrain from using candy or treats as your form of reinforcement, because this can negatively affect their oral health.
5. Be a Role Model
Showing your kids the proper way to protect their teeth can help encourage them to do so. Make toothbrushing a family activity in order to show your children the important of brushing their teeth regularly and thoroughly.
It is important to build a solid foundation regarding your child’s oral hygiene routine. Follow these tips to help encourage your children to brush their teeth. To schedule your child’s regular dental cleaning, contact us at Mountain View Pediatric Dentistry.