Recognizing The Benefits of Dental Implants

Most children don't want to brush their teeth, let alone floss them. Getting them to do either, without actually standing behind them watching them do the task twice daily, can be difficult. There are a few things you can do to help make brushing a little more fun, and get them brushing/flossing all on their own without it being such a chore. See below for helpful tips to get your child interested in brushing.

Make A Craft

Teach them early about brushing by using a craft that you can create together. Using an old egg carton and a toothbrush, teach your child to brush. You can add gunk to the "teeth" that your child can brush away. Use floss to show them how to remove food in between their teeth. You can use paper in between the "teeth" and remove it with the floss.

Choose Their Own Toothbrush

Allow your child to choose their own toothbrush at the store. Most children's toothbrushes have characters on them, and there are a number to choose from. Let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste (the toothpaste also has characters and has fun flavors). Choosing their own toothbrush/toothpaste may help them be a little more interested in brushing.

Brush/Floss Together

Brushing and flossing together helps show your child not just proper technique, but also you are teaching by example. If you're doing it, your child is more apt to do so as well. Brush in the morning and evening together, and let your child brush your teeth as well. Make it a fun game.

Use A Timer

Let your child set a special timer, or look for a tooth brushing app on your tablet/phone to help get your child interested in brushing. You should brush your teeth twice daily for 2 minutes. Using a timer will help get your child to brush the proper amount of time, but the app may make it more fun and less like work.

Other Dental Tips:

1. Use only a small amount of toothpaste for younger children. Use only an amount the size of a grain of rice until your child can spit out the toothpaste, rather than swallow it.
2. Be sure to check your child's teeth after they have brushed. You may even have to go over them. Most children aren't able to brush their teeth all on their own until about the age of 5 - 6.
3. Throw away toothbrushes after your child has been sick to help prevent germs being spread.
4. Take your child for regular dental checkups every 6 months.

Getting your child to brush their teeth may feel like a chore for both of you. Turn it into a game to make things more fun. If it's fun, your child may be more willing to do the work. For more tips, contact a clinic like Pacific Ave Dental/Allan L. Hablutzel, DDS.