Many things can seem like a chore to your child, from putting their toys away to helping you set and clean up the table after dinner. One thing that shouldn’t seem like a boring activity is taking care of their oral health! Their tiny teeth deserve the best, so that means trying to find ways to make brushing a little more fun! Continue reading to learn a few ways to spice up your little one’s dental care routine.
Let Them Pick Their Own Tools
Many kids like to take ownership and feel like they’re making a big decision on their own. Instead of you picking out their oral care products, let them choose! Sometimes all it takes is letting them pick out a toothbrush with their favorite character or a fun flavor of toothpaste (be sure it has fluoride!) to help build a strong routine.
Join In with Them
Being a part of your child’s dental hygiene routine can help you lead by example. Showing them how you care for your teeth can encourage them to do the same. You just might be their role model, so you can help teach them the proper techniques. If you find your little one brushing incorrectly or have a tip to help them be more effective at it, then you can take the time to show them the correct way to care for their tiny teeth.
Turn Brushing into a Game
You can use technology to your advantage! Many apps can help your little one brush for the full two minutes through a game or by setting your timer. There are also plaque-disclosing tablets that can help visually show how well they are brushing. You can find these with an online search.
Reward Good Habits
You might have an incentive for your child to help them complete their chores, or if they get good grades, so you should extend these to their oral care! Not only will they be getting the prize of having happy and healthy teeth, but another reward they earn can help create positive habits. You can assign each step of the routine points to where they can spend them on small toys, privileges, or fun outings!
Have a Consistent Routine
Routines are a great way to help kids learn! You can let your child pick a time during the morning and night to brush their teeth and stick to doing the routine at that time. By starting and ending each day with their oral hygiene, it won’t be long until they start to do it without needing to be reminded!
If something is a fun activity, then kids are more likely to want to do it! Find the tips that work for you and your family, so you can help your child build healthy habits that they’ll take with them as they get older.
About the Author
Dr. Steven Pike earned his DDS from the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. As a father himself, he knows the importance of making oral care exciting, so he’s dedicated to having a fun and game-filled space that kids want to go to. If you want to learn how to make an at-home routine more fun for your little one, schedule an appointment or call us at (503) 297-1711.