As adults, caring for our teeth might not be the most exciting part of the day. But because we know the importance of oral hygiene, and the tooth problems we can encounter when we neglect it, we do it anyway.
Dental hygiene for kids, on the other hand, is another matter entirely. They don’t yet understand why brushing and flossing are necessary parts of the day.
To overcome this, you have to find a way to make teeth cleaning a positive experience, and we’re here to help you do it!
Read on to learn how to teach dental hygiene to your kids in a way that’s enjoyable for everyone.
Lead by Example
Your kids watch and imitate everything you do, so it’s no surprise that one of the best tips for dental hygiene education for kids is to lead by example. Bring your child with you while you brush and floss your teeth with good technique.
When you’re done, help them do the same. Brush their teeth first, then use floss or flossers to clean between the teeth.
If your child is old enough to have traditional or clear braces, help them learn how to keep their braces sanitary. Like teeth, clear aligners need to be cleaned twice a day to stay fresh and in good condition.
Let Them Pick Their Toothbrush
Children of all ages like to feel like they’re in control, which is why practicing good dental hygiene for kids without a fight requires giving them some autonomy. Letting them hold their toothbrush themselves, for example, is a great way to make tooth care fun.
Another way to boost their interest in dental hygiene is to allow them to pick out their own toothbrush. A colorful toothbrush with your child’s favorite cartoon character could make all the difference when it comes time to brush teeth.
The average person needs a new toothbrush 3 or 4 times a year, so your child’s toothbrush can always match their interests.
Use Music as a Timer
Teeth brushing should last about two minutes from start to finish – why not choose a 2-minute song to brush along to?
Let your child pick the song each time they brush their teeth so that they feel involved and in control. If the song is longer than two minutes, just move on to flossing while it’s still playing.
Choose a Special Toothpaste
If your child isn’t a fan of your minty toothpaste, consider letting them pick out a toothpaste of their own. Children’s toothpaste comes in a variety of fun colors and flavors, but don’t worry, it’s just as effective as the traditional varieties.
Again, when it comes to dental hygiene tips for kids, the number one thing to remember is autonomy. Tooth care time might not be your child’s favorite activity, but by giving them freedom of choice in everything but tooth care itself, you’re much more likely to get through tantrum-free.
Build Good Habits Early With These Tips for Dental Hygiene for Kids
It’s never too early to start teaching your children the importance of hygiene and oral care. And with these tips for turning dental hygiene for kids into a fun activity, your kids will look forward to their daily brushes.
Looking for more tips and tricks for building healthy habits with your children? Be sure to check out our blog!
