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Laying the foundation for good oral hygiene in children as young as toddlers will ensure they practice proper dental care for the rest of their lives. Though it may be challenging for them at first, encouraging them and using these tips will help them learn to brush their teeth.

How to Help Children Learn to Brush Their Teeth

1. Model Behavior

You are their example of good dental care. Perform morning and night dental routines together every day. Let your child watch you brush and floss your teeth before you help them take care of theirs.

2. Work Together

dental careWhen brushing is still too tough or your child doesn’t have the attention span to handle the task, try hand-over-hand. Place your hand over theirs, and guide them through each stroke of the brush. Move their hand in gentle circles as you narrate what you’re doing and the areas that need to be cleaned every time they brush. This allows them to practice the movements physically while you guide them to a thorough clean.

You can also take turns: you do the brushing at night, and they do it themselves in the morning.

3. Play a Song

Children love music, and playing a song while brushing will make the process more fun. The song will also act as a timer to ensure each session lasts two minutes for a complete clean.

4. Use Child-Sized Tools

A child-sized brush will make it easier for your kid to learn and handle their equipment. They’ll have a better grip, and the brush head won’t feel too big for their mouth. Consider an electric toothbrush that helps remove plaque as they learn proper brushing techniques.

 

If you need help teaching your child at-home dental care, see the professionals at Discovery Dental in Eagle River, AK. Their pediatric dentists have served the area since 2013, offering everything from dental exams and cavity prevention to emergency services. To make an appointment, call (907) 622-5437. Visit them online for more information on their capabilities.

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