Your family dentist may have warned you about the risks of letting your children drink sugary beverages, but have they ever mentioned the dental health benefits of drinking more water? Most tap water in the U.S. contains fluoride, a mineral that naturally strengthens teeth, but drinking any water helps wash away the food particles that can lead to tooth decay. Here are a few tips for getting your kids to drink more water.

How to Help Your Children Increase Their Water Intake

1. Add More Flavor

A lot of children and adults don’t like to drink water because of its lack of flavor. Add some zing to your drinking water by infusing it with fresh fruits, veggies, and herbs such as lemon, cucumber, and mint. For a fun variation, try freezing berries in ice cubes and putting them in your child’s water. Your kids will get a kick out of watching the berries float while enjoying a sweet treat that even your dentist will endorse.

2. Make It Fun

Water may not come in bright colors like fruit juices or eye-catching packages like sodas, but that doesn’t mean drinking it has to be boring. Take your child to the store and let them pick out their own special cup and some reusable twisty straws. Even plain water will be a lot more fun for your kids if they’re drinking it through a wacky straw out of a cup emblazoned with their favorite colors or cartoon characters.

3. Be a Role Model

Most kids pick up a lot of habits from their parents, so use this to your advantage to model good oral hygiene practices for your children. When your kids see you brushing and flossing, visiting the dentist regularly, and drinking lots of water, they’ll be inspired to do those actions, too. Set a good example for your kids by choosing water at mealtimes and keeping a water bottle with you when you’re on the go.

There are many ways to get your child into the habit of drinking plenty of water. Judy Walker, DDS, in Greensboro, NC, has over 25 years of experience in family dentistry. They offer a wide range of dental services, including dental implants, veneers, periodontal therapy, and teeth whitening. Call (336) 275-1472 today to schedule a dentist appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their practice.