Getting young kids to brush their teeth properly can be a battle. Here are some tips to help!
1. Choose kid-flavored toothpaste
The minty toothpaste that satisfies many adults is often overpowering to younger palates. Toothpaste developers take flavors for children’s tubes of toothpaste seriously because they encourage the development of good oral care habits for life. So parents should purchase age-appropriate toothpaste for their young ones.
Children also feel empowered when they have options and the ability to make their own decisions. So purchasing multiple flavors or letting them choose their flavor can also be helpful.
Spending a few extra dollars on a variety of children’s toothpastes is a minimal expense compared to the alternative expense of fillings.
2. Purchase soft or extra-soft children’s toothbrushes
Parents should make sure to purchase soft or extra-soft toothbrushes for children. Brushing can be painful to children because of their growing jaws, sensitive gums, and erupting teeth.
3. Allow the child to choose their own toothbrush
Allowing children to choose which toothbrush they want is another great way to get kids more enthusiastic about brushing. Pediatric toothbrushes are intentionally designed to have thicker handles for easier grasping, smaller heads for more comfortable access, and they have bright colors and recognizable characters.
Again, giving kids options offers them a sense of ownership and will help them feel more enthusiastic and excited about brushing.
4. Find a way to make it fun
Kids love games and, depending on their age, they are often excited about doing activities where they can bond with others. Unfortunately, children typically associate toothbrushing with bedtime. And we all know how most kids feel about bedtime. So try brushing before they get in the bath or change into their pj’s to try to avoid the negative association of toothbrushing and bedtime. You can also try turning on their favorite song for them to dance to while brushing!
Make sure to give kids encouragement. Parents and caregivers face many challenges and sometimes the battle of helping children brush their teeth feels too overwhelming to handle. Encourage them to keep their chin up and to keep trying because good oral health at a young age can translate to good habits for the rest of their lives!
At Cumberland Valley Pediatric Dentistry, we are here to be your dental health partner. If you have questions about brushing, our dentists and hygienists are always happy to answer questions and offer recommendations for you to get the best out of your brushing! Call our office at 717-253-9839.
