Once we've reached a certain age, we realise how important it is to brush our teeth regularly. Not just in terms of maintaining a good, clean smile and fresh breath, but also to long-term oral health. Even so, it can be hard to translate this information into something that our kids will understand. To many of them, brushing is little more than another chore, and can easily be forgotten or willfully ignored.
For parents, this presents something of a conundrum, but there are a few great ways to get little ones to brush regularly and thoroughly.
Brushing doesn't have to be two minutes of sober silence, and can be turned into a fun activity.
1. Make a game of it
Contrary to what your kids might think, brushing doesn't have to be two minutes of sober silence, and can be turned into a fun activity. There are countless ways you can liven up the process, with playing music being a particular favourite among many parents. Not only will it liven things up, but adding a bit of action and pizazz to the ablutions process can give a little extra burst of energy to ensure that every last bit of plaque is reached and removed.
Another option is to split the job into sections, with a set time allocated to each tooth or part of the mouth. This will make your kids feel as though they're brushing with purpose, rather than aimlessly waving the brush around.
2. Customise the experience
To make your child feel as though brushing is an important part of their life, it might help to get them a toothbrush that they can identify as 'theirs'. You've no doubt seen the dozens of dental products aimed at children – bearing images of popular TV characters and cartoon figures, so why not let your little rascal pick out their own brush and toothpaste?
Alternatively, an electric toothbrush is a great way to make the whole effort feel futuristic and exciting. Plus it might produce a better quality clean!
3. Rewards and incentives
We're not saying that you should bribe your kids to brush their teeth properly. But hey, what harm does a sticker or other little present do? None at all, and if that's what it takes to get your children brushing properly, then so be it. You can also incentivise them by booking a visit to the dental hygienist. There, they'll learn how to brush properly, and will have something to strive for when doing it at home.
For more information on keeping your kids' oral health up to scratch, contact City Dentists today.