Having your kids practice good oral hygiene at an early age is very important. Kids are susceptible to cavities and tooth decay due to sugary snacks and poor oral hygiene. As a concerned parent, there are many things you can do to make oral hygiene fun and effective for your kids.
Lead by example: Instead of telling your kids to brush their teeth show them how to brush their teeth. Share the experience with your kids by brushing your teeth with them. By doing this, not only are you able to make sure they are brushing properly, but you can also spend time with them and show them that good oral hygiene and healthy smiles are fun.
Jazz it up: Make oral hygiene fun for them by buying them wacky toothpaste or toothbrushes adorned with their favorite cartoon characters, colors, and stickers. Not only does this make it fun for them to brush their teeth, but it might also encourage them to brush their teeth more often because they like the flavor of toothpaste or the way their toothbrush looks.
Make a game of it: Encourage them by making oral hygiene into a game. For example play “Simon Says” with them by calling out the different parts of the mouth and brushing them. Or have a laughing contest and see who can go the longest brushing their teeth without laughing. The result: happy kids and healthy teeth.
Provide proof: Tape up pictures in their bathroom of characters or role models that have great smiles. Your kids can look at these photos and realize the importance of having healthy teeth. Also, having them watch television shows that demonstrate good oral hygiene behaviors can also set a good example.
Oral hygiene can be fun for kids if you open your mind and explore different creative options. Make brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash fun so it can lead to good hygienic habits in the future.
For more information about children and oral hygiene, contact Dr. Brad Greenfield and our team at Lake Orion Family Dentistry by visiting our website at lakeorionfamilyhealth.com or calling us at 248-693-6213.
