When it comes to a bedtime routine, or getting out of the house on time in the morning, parents often feel like they are swimming against the current on a number of fronts - making school lunches, getting everyone bathed and dressed, and accommodating everyone’s food preferences. But more often than not, the biggest concern we hear from parents, is how to get their kids to brush their teeth.
So here are a few tips from our Dental team to help make teeth brushing a part of the routine that is enjoyed, not endured!
1. ROUTINE
Work together with your children to establish a clear routine for brushing their teeth, and stick to it. Try to keep teeth brushing to the same time, every morning and night.
2. SHOW AND TELL
Brush your own teeth while your child is brushing theirs. Modelling is such an effective parenting strategy, so get down on their level and let them see how you brush all your teeth – top and bottom, front and back. Children still need help with their technique, so it's a great opportunity for you to help them with places they might be missing.
3. MAKE A STORY FROM IT
Demonstrate how to brush in circles like train wheels going around a track from left to right and right to left… Make it something they will love and look forward to.
4. GIVE THEM A CHOICE
Involving children in daily choices is essential to building ownership and increasing their participation in self-care tasks. Next time you are at the Supermarket, why not let them pick the flavour of the toothpaste, or the colour of the toothbrush.
5. MAKE IT FUN
Choosing a favourite song to play is a great idea to ensure you're dedicating the required two minutes to brushing, or see who can make the most bubbles with their brushing!
6. TELL THEM WHY
Education is critical. Tailor it to their age and watch their habits change for life. Now is the time to instil great fundamental oral hygiene habits.
And last, but certainly not least - don't forget to start them early with regular visits to the Dentist. We promise to make a comfortable, fun and GOOD first impression! Give us a call Today, or simply book online: here
Happy flossing!
The Dental 4U Team