How to Make Brushing Fun for Kids
If you have children, you know how difficult it can be to teach them to properly brush their teeth. Kids just never seem to have the time, energy, or motivation to brush, and parents quickly become burnt out trying to force their little ones to do this bit of daily dental care. Brushing teeth can become a real chore when parents and kids view it as boring, so it’s important for parents to find ways to make brushing as fun as possible.
Talk About Brushing Throughout the Day
Don’t wait for teeth brushing time to talk about the importance of keeping teeth clean and healthy. Try to incorporate discussions about dental care into daily activities so that they begin making the connection between good health and brushing teeth, and can see the results of both good and bad dental care in real life.
Give Them Some Control
Everyone likes to be in control of what’s happening to them, and children are no different. While we can’t let kids make all the decisions related to their dental care, allowing them to choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste are a great way to get them involved and interested in their own dental health. Many kids are excited to use their new character-themed toothbrush or flavor of toothpaste, making them much more likely to not fight when it is brushing time.
Brush With Them
Parents should always role model the behaviors they want to see in their children, and brushing their teeth alongside them is a great way to show them that even adults have to take care of their teeth. This can be an excellent time to not only practice proper dental care, but to also connect with the kids, ask them about their day, or listen to them talk about something special or important that’s been on their mind.
Sing a Song
The American Dental Association recommends that both adults and children brush for at least two minutes, twice each day. Two minutes doesn’t sound like a long time, but it can feel like an eternity for a young child who is just learning teeth brushing skills. Make those two minutes pass by in a breeze by singing a fun or silly song while brushing teeth. Pop open the Spotify playlist and start their favorite track, search for teeth brushing songs on Youtube, or go with the crowd-pleaser “My Shiny Teeth & Me” by Chip Skylark.
Give Praise & Rewards
No matter if a child brushes for two minutes or two seconds, always remember to offer lots of verbal praise or even a tangible reward for their efforts. Children thrive on praise and recognition, and dental health is so important for their physical and emotional well-being that parents should really lay it on thick. Little rewards like a sugar-free candy, small toy at the end of the week, or even just some extra time watching their favorite TV show are all great ways to encourage and motivate kids to become great brushers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry
When should I schedule my child’s first dental visit?
Schedule your child’s first dental visit when their first tooth starts coming in or at their first birthday, whichever comes first. If you have any concerns about your child’s dental health before these two events, do not hesitate to schedule their first dental visit early.
How often should my child visit the dentist?
After their first visit with the dentist, your child should have routine dental cleanings and examinations done at least twice each year.
Pediatric Dental Care in Memphis
At Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis, we believe all parts of a child’s dental experience should be fun. That’s why we strive to make visits to our office as enjoyable as possible for children and teens, sowing the seeds of good dental health for the rest of their lives. If you’re in Memphis and need a high-quality and compassionate pediatric dentist for your children, contact us to schedule an appointment at Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis at one of our two convenient locations:
Kirby Center Cove: 901-363-8192
White Station: 901-363-8192