Parents are always looking for ways to teach their kids about healthy habits. One of the most important things they need to teach their kids is how to take care of their teeth. Tooth decay is the number one chronic childhood disease, and it’s preventable! In this blog post, we will discuss tips on teaching your kids about dental hygiene.
Tell Them What the Toothbrush Is Doing
Have a discussion with your kids about their teeth. Show your children that brushing their teeth isn’t unpleasant because parents aren’t fun. Discuss what their teeth do and how they need to be cleaned twice daily to carry out the required tasks.
Finally, as you brush their teeth, remind them why they’re doing it. “Our teeth are crammed with strawberries and ice cream, just like earlier. We must clean our teeth diligently to restore them!”
Let Them Pick Their Toothbrush
If you give children a little bit of control, they’re more likely to want to participate in those activities. Allow kids to choose their toothbrushes. Make it an enjoyable activity that both of you do together. Perhaps even select your toothbrush simultaneously so you can coordinate things better.
Create a Rewards System
We all love being rewarded for a job well done. The same goes for kids! Create a rewards system that will incentivize your child to brush their teeth regularly. For example, you can have a star chart where they earn a star each time they brush their teeth without complaint. Once they’ve earned a certain number of stars, they can cash them in for a prize.
Use a Timer Game
Make brushing teeth a fun game by setting a timer for two minutes and seeing who can brush their teeth the longest. You can also use this time to teach your kids about proper brushing techniques. Remember to be patient and praise them for their efforts!
There are three advantages to using a timer. First, it provides something for the youngster to concentrate on since distractions are wonderful for youngsters who hate going into the bathroom. Second, it offers a genuine sense of how much time is left and allows you to start an interesting countdown fuss when they get near the finish. And third, it encourages beneficial habits that will last a lifetime!
Get Into a Routine
Routines are important for kids. They provide a sense of order and security in an otherwise chaotic world. When it comes to brushing teeth, setting up a routine will make the task seem less daunting. Have your child brush their teeth at the same time every day, such as after breakfast or bedtime.
The Bottom Line
Oral hygiene begins as your teeth come in. However, persuading a 3-year-old to turn off the television and floss might be difficult. But oral health is critical for youngsters. It prepares their mouths for adult teeth and helps them stay in school by preventing dental diseases. Use these five strategies to teach your kids how to take care of their teeth and develop good habits that will last a lifetime!
Want to see how they’re doing? Click here to make a dental hygiene appointment at Hale Wellness Dental Studio today!