As a parent, it’s your job to make oral healthcare fun, and as approachable as possible by mitigating fear and anxiety, and replacing negative feelings with optimism and instruction. A great place to begin encouraging your young child is at home. Try making oral healthcare fun and informative with these fun brushing tips!
1 – Use Videos
For first time brushers, it can be tough to brush for two minutes at a time. This is due to a number of things, but it mostly comes down to the fact that it’s difficult to keep young children still and focused on brushing their teeth for two minutes. You can help your child have more fun while they brush by letting them brush while watching a tooth brushing video. These educational videos help guide children through brushing their teeth, and each lasts at least two minutes. We suggest finding one that you deem appropriate for your child, and one that they will enjoy watching.
2 – Brush Together
One great way to help first time brushers is by brushing with them. This allows you to give them specific brushing tips, as well as keep an eye on how ling they’re brushing. It can also help you get into a fun routine with your child and have a bit more time together.
3 – Buy an Electric Toothbrush
An electric toothbrush is an appealing option for children just beginning to brush, since they require less dexterity and physical motion to operate. Additionally, most electric toothbrushes feature brushing timers which tell the operator how much time they have left to brush, as well as a pressure monitor which informs the brusher when they’re brushing too hard. We suggest looking for an electric toothbrush specifically made for children.
4 – Read Tooth-Friendly Books
By reading books with your child, you can help them form positive associations with healthcare, and get them excited about caring for their teeth! Try adding some fun children’s books to your home, and other informative dental games and materials to teach your child about oral healthcare. Try making oral healthcare fun and informative with these fantastic dental books for children:
The Tooth Book
Clarabella’s Teeth
The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist
I Know Why I Brush My Teeth
New Brushers Love Our Office
If your child is just beginning to brush, then visit our office. Our team of pediatric dentists can teach them how to properly brush, and help them learn about the finer points of oral healthcare. Tooth decay is almost entirely preventable, help your child get a healthy smile by getting into a healthy brushing routine.
