It’s best for kids to learn excellent oral hygiene habits early so they can avoid painful and destructive dental infections that can diminish the beauty and function of their smiles, but many children have trouble grasping the importance of keeping their teeth clean and healthy. Fortunately, there are a few excellent ways to help make oral hygiene exciting for kids so they can more easily learn to brush and floss on their own every day. Here’s a quick look at a few excellent ways to make dental hygiene more fun for children.
Explain Oral Hygiene in a Way Kids Can Understand
Many children may have trouble wrapping their heads around ideas like bacterial infections and the long-term consequences of neglecting to keep their teeth clean. Fortunately, presenting these issues in age-appropriate ways can help make them simple enough for kids to understand. For example, you can tell your child that their teeth are surrounded by terrible monsters that want to eat them alive and the best way to keep their smile healthy is to slay these vile beasts every day with toothpaste and proper brushing habits.
Make Oral Hygiene a Family Affair
Children learn many of their habits by imitating the adults in their lives, so modelling excellent oral hygiene practices for them can help them learn how to gently and thoroughly clean their teeth. One of the best ways to do this is to brush your teeth alongside them so they can observe how you apply a small amount of paste to your brush and carefully clean your teeth using short, circular strokes before gently cleaning the spaces in your smile with dental floss. This will also give you the opportunity to monitor how they clean their teeth and advise them as to how to do so more effectively.
Rewards!
Rewarding good behavior is a crucial part of teaching children proper habits, so giving your child a treat if you notice them practicing excellent oral hygiene can be an excellent way to help them keep their smile healthy for life. Consider offering a reward such as a trip to the park or extra playtime if you notice your child practicing excellent oral hygiene independently or if your pediatric dentist says they have been taking great care of their teeth. Just remember that sugary treats can be detrimental to your child’s oral health.
Proper oral hygiene is a crucial part of staying in great health for life. Teaching your child excellent habits early can help them maintain a gorgeous smile while avoiding painful cavities and gum infections.
About the Author
Dr. Lily earned her dental degree at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona and completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry certification at the Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn. She is a proud member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Her office offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry to children in Garland and the surrounding areas. To schedule your child’s next checkup, contact her office on the web or dial (469) 925-0861.