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Teaching your children about the importance of oral health is something that should begin at a very young age. By getting them in the habit of caring for their teeth now, you lessen their chances of serious issues in the future. If you are struggling to help your children understand the importance of brushing, flossing, and obtaining family dentistry, here are a few tips and tricks from your local dentistry. - Make tooth brushing an event. Dental professionals suggest brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Many kids grow impatient trying to brush for 2 minutes. Make it something fun for them to look forward to. Turn on a song or set a timer that helps them stay motivated while brushing.
- Choose fun brushes and toothpaste. If your kids are tired of the same old colored toothbrushes and toothpaste, invest in something a bit more fun. Try taking your kids with you to the store to pick out their own toothbrushes and toothpaste. They will look forward to brushing more if they are the ones to choose what they brush with. If you don’t want to brave the toothbrush aisle with your kids, buy a selection of different toothpastes for them to choose from. They’ll have fun mixing up their flavors each time they brush.
- Make a chart. For children who struggle to brush their teeth consistently, make a brushing chart. Each time they brush, place a sticker on the chart next to their name. Once they get a certain amount of stickers, reward them with something special.
- Let them choose who helps them. Children are too young to brush their own teeth until the age of 4. They lack the dexterity to do it properly. This means that mom or dad needs to help. Let your child choose whose turn it is to help each night.
- Teach them about the right foods to eat. Most kids would rather eat a donut and a cube of cheese. They may not realize what all of that sugar is doing to their teeth. Teach your children the difference between healthy, tooth-friendly foods and sugary, starchy foods. Let them help in deciding, buying, and preparing different meals for your family.
- Get a lesson from the pros. Ask your dentist to give your kids an in-depth lesson on how to brush and floss their teeth. Chances are your dentist has a few fun tricks to help make brushing a fun event for your kids, no matter their ages.
- Start dental visits young. The younger you start the dental visits, the less apprehensive your child will be once checkup day comes. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends having your child seen before their first birthday.
- Use books. There are many different books available that explain why brushing is so important. Read these books regularly to help your child grow accustomed to brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist.
- Be sensitive. For some kids, going to the dentist is going to invoke fear. That’s okay! Be patient and do your best to listen to their fears.
- Lead by example. Your children aren’t going to think brushing and flossing is important if they don’t see you doing it. Make sure that you are taking care of your teeth on a daily basis to ensure that your children catch on and keep those healthy habits with them.
No matter how old your child is, it’s important for them to start learning healthy habits. By following these tips and finding a great place to obtain family dentistry, your child is more likely to have a beautiful, sparkling smile free from cavities.
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