Let’s face it, getting kids to brush their teeth can be a struggle. But fear not, parents! At Hersch Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we’ve got you covered with five tips to help get your kids on board with brushing and flossing at home.
From making oral hygiene a family activity to using a special toothbrush, these tips will have your kids excited to show off their pearly whites in no time. So put down that toothpaste tube and keep reading – we’re here to make dental hygiene fun for the whole family!
1. Lead by Example
The first thing you need to know is that children don’t develop healthy oral hygiene habits on their own – they require someone to teach them. This is where you come in. Your child will take cues from you; if you do a great job with your oral hygiene, your child will likely follow after you. Try to make brushing and flossing a family activity so that your child will see what you’re doing and understand how to properly care for their teeth.
2. Use a Special Toothbrush
Regular toothbrushes can seem boring to children, but a special child’s toothbrush can make oral hygiene seem fun and exciting. You can find colorful or character-themed toothbrushes at almost any major grocery or drug store. The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush once every three months. Letting your child choose a new soft-bristled toothbrush every three months is a great way to make oral hygiene fun.
3. Brush Your Teeth Together
Children love to follow their parents’ example, so brushing your teeth together is a great way to show your child how to practice good oral hygiene. Take this opportunity to show your child proper brushing technique (brushing in short strokes with the brush held at a 45-degree angle to the gums).
4. Use a Timer
Your Newport Beach pediatric dentist and the American Dental Association recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. You can purchase a two-minute sand timer or set an alarm on your phone so your child knows once he or she has reached the two-minute recommendation.
5. Flossing Chart
Flossing is an essential part of oral hygiene, but it can be difficult to get children to floss regularly. Creating or purchasing a flossing chart with stickers is a great way to encourage children to floss every day. Consider presenting your child with a small prize if he or she flosses daily for a week!
Bonus Tip: Don’t skip dental appointments!
We hope this one is obvious! Starting at about the age of one, you should begin taking your child to the children’s dentist. Your pediatric dentist won’t just check for cavities and other dental problems; in fact, one of the most important things that your dentist will be able to do is help ensure that your child is maintaining good dental hygiene on a daily basis.
A pediatric dentist can both review your child’s current dental hygiene routine and offer suggestions to make it more effective. To book an appointment, you can contact us at (949) 749-5389 or schedule an appointment online!
