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If your child makes a big fuss out of brushing, you probably feel pretty frustrated. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to help them make this a habit and improve their oral hygiene. Here, Beard & Holmen LTD, a dentist in Waterloo, IL, shares tips on how to encourage your child to brush their teeth.

How to Make Brushing Fun for Kids

1. Turn on a Fun Song

Dentists recommend brushing for at least two minutes to remove all the plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. However, those two minutes can seem like forever to a young child. To make the time go by a little faster, play your child’s favorite song while they brush their teeth. Encourage them to keep the brush moving until the tune ends.

2. Play a Game

Children love games, so why not play one during brushing time? For example, you could tell your child about the “sugar bugs” that are on their teeth. Explain these pesky bugs can cause cavities and the only way to get rid of them is with a toothbrush. 

3. Try a Different Toothpaste & Toothbrush

dentistIf your child doesn’t like the taste of traditional mint toothpaste, let them pick out a different flavor at the drug store, like strawberry or bubblegum. While they’re at it, let them select their own toothbrush with a fun design or favorite cartoon character on it.

4. Reward Your Child

Give your child a sticker each time they successfully brush their teeth. After they have earned 30 stickers, give them a bigger reward, like a new toy or trip to the movie theater. Kids respond well to positive reinforcement, so they will be more likely to brush their teeth regularly if they know they will be rewarded for it later.

And, of course, it’s crucial to bring your little one to the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. The professionals at Beard & Holmen LTD have more than 25 years of experience in the field and are great with children. For more information, call (618) 939-7181 or visit their website.

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