It seems that parents everywhere struggle with getting their kids to brush their teeth. No matter how much kids don’t want to get cavities and go to the dentists for dental fillings, they still can be resistant to regular teeth brushing.
But, as a parent, it’s your duty to make sure they do. So, how do you get your kids to actually want to brush their teeth regularly? Well, your local Billings, MT dentists are here to help and give you tips on how you can get your kids to brush their teeth.
Brush The Teeth Of Younger Children
While there is no exact age when parents no longer need to brush their kids’ teeth, sometimes children are responsible for their teeth brushing a little too early. Young children under the age of 6 years old can lack the dexterity to properly brush their teeth.
However, it is essential for kids to develop the habit of brushing their teeth. Parents can combine children brushing their own teeth with parental brushing to help build up the habit. So, let your child brush their teeth, then give their teeth another go over with your assistance.
Supervise Teeth Brushing
For older children who have yet to reach their teens—but are likely starting to want more independence—supervised toothbrushing can help ensure their teeth are cleaned. This supervision can come in several forms, from watching your kids brush to having them report to you once they are done.
With greater accountability, your children are more likely to brush their teeth consistently, so as they get older, the habit of teeth brushing will be firmly ingrained.
Tips for Getting Kids to Want to Brush
Along with the above advice, an important part of getting kids to regularly brush their teeth is helping them want to brush them. These tips can help parents encourage their children to brush their teeth so that their children can enjoy a healthy mouth for life.
Regular dental visits help
For the child that takes what other people tell them seriously, the fear of a disappointed dentist might be all it takes to get a child in gear and brushing his teeth all the time. Flossing might be a different story, but at least your kids will be working on brushing.
Have a foam competition
When brushing their teeth is fun, kids want to do it more. Have a contest to see who can get the foamiest mouth with their toothpaste. Of course, this kind of foaming will require lots and lots of hearty brushing.
Sing a song
When kids have a clear idea of how long they will have to brush, it won’t seem like such a chore. With you singing a song, you can help them to know how long it takes for the song to end and for them to be done brushing.
Positively reinforce teeth brushing
Every kid does well with praise, so make sure to pile it on for them when they do what you ask and do it well. Make a big deal out of sparkly teeth, too, so they want to brush more often.
Brush with your kids
Make it a point to brush and floss your teeth when your children do. Kids love to do what their parents do, and since the best way to lead is by example, taking the time out to brush your teeth with your children will help to build a strong foundation.
Let kids choose their toothpaste
Some kinds of toothpaste just don’t taste good to kids. So, instead of forcing the issue, let them choose their own toothpaste and toothbrush. If they know that they have picked it out, they might be more likely to want to use it.
Make brushing part of a routine
Set a timer for them. In the morning when they get up and ready for the day, make brushing part of the routine, just like brushing the hair or washing the face. Do the same in the evening. It doesn’t take long to make it a habit, so stick with it, and soon you won’t have to force the issue.
Good brushing habits for life start with solid foundations when children are young. So, try to make brushing your teeth seem like it’s not such a big deal. Before you know it, your child will be reminding you that it’s time to pick up the toothbrush and toothpaste.