Share:

Your child’s health and happiness is your priority, and one of the best ways to help your child lead their best life is to instill good habits early. This includes dental care techniques such as brushing and flossing for a bright, healthy smile. But getting your child to brush and floss may not always be easy. If your little one is reluctant to floss, try these tips.

Do:

Choose the right tools.

Take your child to the store and let them choose their tools. Provide floss picks, as these will be easier to use than regular string. Have them slide it up and down along the sides of each tooth and under the gum line in a C-shaped motion. Rinse the floss after each tooth to avoid reinserting the food and plaque you removed.

Reward good behavior.

dental careYou might use a brushing and flossing chart to help them keep track of their oral hygiene routine, and reward them when they floss without needing to be reminded. For instance, you might let them stay up for 10 minutes later than usual, or take them for a trip to the library when they’ve completed their dental care routine on their own for five straight days. 

Don’t:

Get frustrated.

Remind your child to floss by gently asking if they’ve done it. Don’t get frustrated if they’ve forgotten. Explain why it’s important to include this step, and avoid making negative comments about flossing your teeth, as your child may then associate it with negative emotions. If they see you taking oral hygiene seriously, they will follow your lead.

Make exceptions.

Routine is very important to children. Some days may be hectic, and it could be tempting to skip brushing and flossing, particularly if you and your child are tired, or you’re traveling. Reinforcing good behaviors consistently will encourage them to make good oral health choices for life.

 

If you need a dentist who will help you enforce healthy dental care habits in your child’s life, turn to to Lowitz & Meier in Cincinnati, OH. As the community’s go-to clinic for family dentistry, this team of caring professionals provide a range of services, from routine care to orthodontics, for patients of all ages. Additionally, they offer cosmetic solutions, such as porcelain veneers and teeth whitening for those who want to give their smile a boost. Call (513) 521-8900 to schedule a dental care appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their services.

tracking