It may be challenging to get your young children excited about brushing their teeth. Tooth decay is a common, preventable chronic disease that many children between the ages of 6 and 11 experience. Teaching them to build strong dental habits now will help them maintain their overall health and prevent excessive trips to the dentist when they get older.

How to Encourage Your Kids to Brush Their Teeth

1. Begin Early

Most dentists recommend starting oral care long before your child’s teeth come in. Use a warm, clean cloth to wipe their gums each night before bed. When their teeth start arriving, swap to a toothbrush. When they get old enough to hold the toothbrush, teach them how to use it so that they can take over the task themselves. Continue to supervise their brushing to ensure their teeth are getting completely clean.

2. Make It a Family Event

Since young children imitate what they see, make sure they notice you taking care of your teeth and brushing properly. Let your kids pick a song to dance to while they brush, and get the whole family involved in a bathroom dance party. This is also a fun way to spend quality time together every day.

3. Let Them Make Decisions

Let your children have a say in which toothbrush they get to use. They’ll be more excited to care for their teeth if the brush has a picture of their favorite superhero or princess. Since mint can be strong for some children, allow them to pick out mild, kid-friendly toothpaste.

If you want to continue looking after your child’s oral care, contact the team of dentists at Oahu Dental Care in Hawaii. For over 25 years, these professionals have helped patients of all ages achieve a brilliant smile, offering a variety of services, including routine exams, digital X-rays, and teeth cleanings. To schedule an appointment with a dentist, call their Pearl City office at (808) 456-5005 or their Honolulu location at (808) 732-2821. You can also learn more about their services by visiting their website.