As a parent, you have many responsibilities, including staying on top of your children’s dental care. What happens between teeth cleanings has a significant impact on your child’s overall oral health. If getting your kids to brush and floss is a daily struggle, you may be wondering how to maintain their pearly whites between visits. Here are a few strategies that can help children of all ages foster proper oral hygiene habits.

3 Ways to Get Kids Excited About Dental Care

1. Buy a Brush They’re Excited to Use

If your children are stubborn about brushing, it may be worth investing in a toothbrush they can’t wait to try. Older kids may want to use electric toothbrushes, and younger children might get excited about using one that depicts their favorite cartoon character. You can try the same tactic with floss. If your children don’t like using traditional floss, improve their dental care routine by purchasing interdental brushes, floss picks, or a water flosser.

2. Make It a Family Affair

Lead by example and let your kids see you brushing and flossing every day. You can even do it together as a family just before bedtime when things probably less hectic than they are in the morning. Hum a brushing song together to make sure your child is brushing long enough. When the tune is over, they know it’s time to rinse.

3. Start a Tracking System

Devise a system with stickers and a calendar that tracks your kids’ oral hygiene habits. Reward them if they brush and floss without being told for a certain number of consecutive days. The rewards don’t have to cost money. Consider incentivizing your child with skipping chores for a day or heading to their favorite playground for an hour.

Visits to the dentist should be a part of your kids’ oral health routine, and if they’re due for a cleaning, turn to Dentaworks Hawaii in Honolulu. For over 30 years, this local, family-owned practice has provided quality dental care for patients of all ages across Oahu, including teeth whitening and emergency care. View their services online, or call (808) 528-1200 to schedule an appointment.