How many times have you had to nag your child to brush their teeth? As a parent, we’ve probably all been there. It can be a frustrating battle, but good dental hygiene habits are critical for children.
Especially since cavities are one of the most common diseases among kids.
But, it doesn’t always have to be stressful. There are several different tricks you can incorporate to smooth out the process. To help you, these are 6 tips to help your kids build better dental hygiene.
1. Start Dental Care at a Young Age
One of the best ways to help kids with dental hygiene is to start at a young age.
Even before their first tooth, you can begin the process by gently wiping their gums. This will get them used to having their mouth cleaned.
It’s also a good idea to start taking them to the dentist 6 months after they get their first tooth.
2. Make Brushing Teeth Fun
Instead of making it a chore, try adding a fun-shaped toothbrush and music while brushing their teeth. This will make the whole process more exciting for them, rather than something they’re being forced to do.
A mini dance session and laughter can go a long way.
3. Teach Your Kids Healthy Eating Habits
Besides brushing, you can help your kids reduce their likelihood of getting a cavity by eating healthy. Try reducing the amount of sugar and processed foods in their diet. If you start these habits early, they’re more likely to stick.
But sometimes, even the best eating habits can result in teeth we don’t like. If this happens to you or your kid, you can always consider dental implants as an alternative.
4. Make Dentist Appointments Together
Dentist appointments can be scary and intimidating. In fact, about 36% of people report having anxiety and fear about going to the dentist.
You can help reduce this anxiety by scheduling your own dental appointment alongside your kid. That way you can go together which will make them feel less alone.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement
By using positive reinforcement and rewarding your kid for practicing good dental hygiene, they’ll be more likely to continue the behavior. For example, you could create a chart where they receive a star each time they brush their teeth. Then, after receiving a certain amount of stars, they get a special reward.
This will help motivate them and keep them on track.
6. Choose Different Toothbrush Flavors
Another way to build dental hygiene for kids is to get a variety of toothbrush flavors. Toothbrush flavors come in various fun flavors, including bubblegum, strawberry, watermelon, and chocolate.
If your child has more fun and appealing options to choose from, they’ll be more encouraged to brush.
Now You Have Some Tips to Help Your Child Improve Their Dental Hygiene
These are all small tips that you can start incorporating to help your child build good dental hygiene. By making it fun and less of a chore, your child will find it more enjoyable and may even look forward to it!
The best part about all this is that it doesn’t cost you much money. Singing a song while they brush their teeth only requires a few extra minutes of your time.
And if this prevents your kids from developing cavities, it’s absolutely worth it!
To learn about other helpful topics related to health and wellness, check out the rest of our blog. We have a ton of other great articles that you’ll love!
