Although every parent and dentist agrees that teaching children to brush their teeth is vital for their oral and overall health, acting on that knowledge is a different matter. For many kids, brushing their teeth seems boring and unimportant. If that describes your situation, try using a few handy tips to guide your children toward establishing good dental hygiene habits. 

How to Help Children Develop Healthy Brushing Routines 

1. Start Early 

When your child is a baby, wipe their gums with a soft, clean, and slightly damp cloth. That way, it will be less unpleasantly surprising when you start brushing their teeth. Be consistent about the times of day that you brush their teeth so that they learn to expect it. If you didn’t start this routine in your child’s infancy, though, remember that it’s never too late to start. 

2. Be Honest 

As your child grows and questions whether brushing their teeth are really necessary, talk to them about cavities using simple language and clear explanations. For example, consider saying that their teeth could get sick if they don’t brush the germs away. Get age-appropriate books about dental care and read them together. Describe the dentist as a friend who helps keep their mouth healthy. 

3. Keep It Fun 

Play an enjoyable two-minute song while they brush to keep them motivated and happy the whole time, or get a colorful sand timer measured for two minutes and turn it over so that your child can watch the sand flow while brushing. You could also offer small prizes or even keep track of a reward chart each time they brush successfully. 

4. Make Them Feel Involved 

Take your child to the store and let them choose a toothbrush appropriate for their age, as well as the flavor of fluoride toothpaste they’d prefer. Point out that they may especially enjoy a battery-powered toothbrush, which is highly efficient at scrubbing off bacteria. When your child feels like their choices matter, they may feel more excited and motivated to brush. 

5. Be an Example 

Let your child watch you brush your teeth regularly and with proper techniques. Use gentle, circular motions at 45-degree angles, and don’t forget the tongue. Floss carefully as well, getting a new string for each crevice. Also, schedule your own dentist appointments alongside their own every six months to show that it’s normal and important. 

To further encourage your child to develop great brushing habits, go to Family Dental Center in Chillicothe, OH. By ensuring that each dental appointment is a comfortable and friendly experience, they’ll help your child associate oral health and hygiene with positivity. Their passion for general and cosmetic dentistry inspires them to provide compassionate and personalized service for every patient. For details, call them today at (740) 773-4066 or visit their website.