Do you find it challenging to get your child to stop running around for five seconds just to brush and floss their teeth? You’re not alone. Many parents struggle to get their young ones into the bathroom and engage in good dental habits. Fortunately, there are helpful ways to make oral hygiene fun for kids. Read on to learn more about these three unique methods that will make your child eager to take care of their smile.
Establish an Age-Appropriate Reward System
No matter if your child is two, 12, or 17, giving rewards can help keep them on track with their oral hygiene habits. Although it might be harder to get them to calm down when they’re toddlers and young children, you’ll find it just as difficult as they get older because they’re so engaged in other things outside the home.
By choosing age-appropriate rewards for brushing and/or flossing, you’ll not only give them something to get excited about, but you’ll more importantly help them continue pursuing better oral health as they grow. Some rewards you might consider include stickers, a trip to the park, additional allowance money, or a new toy from the store.
Turn on Some Music
Finding something to give your kids to do while brushing and flossing their teeth doesn’t have to be hard. Instead, you can turn on some of their favorite music and let them enjoy a dance party! You can join in as well!
Just make sure that the song is a full two minutes (at least), reminding your little one that they need to clean their teeth throughout the entire song. You can even turn it into a little game. Whoever brushes until the end of the song wins a prize.
Try Other Flossing Methods
Using traditional dental floss may not be easy for a young child. Trying to hold the string and maneuver it around teeth can be tricky. However, there are kid-friendly flossers on the market that not only make it easier but also more enticing.
With everything from water irrigators to flossers designed to look like sharks, you’ll be surprised how quickly your child reaches for these items to start cleaning between their teeth. Before you know it, they’ll be enjoying a healthier smile and a more positive report from their pediatric dentist.
Oral hygiene doesn’t have to be boring, so give your kids something to look forward to in the mornings and at night before bed.
About the Practice
At Hamilton Pediatric Dental Care, our team is committed to ensuring the health and longevity of every patient’s smile. This is why we not only dedicate ourselves to providing preventive services but also educating parents and their children on the importance of good oral hygiene. If you need help getting your kids excited about brushing and flossing, contact us via the website or (905) 525-8272 to learn more.