Getting kids to brush and floss their teeth is a must, and while we might be able to help them understand that it’s good for them, getting them to like doing it is something else, but even that is possible. Good oral hygiene habits are best introduced at an early age; the younger the better. So, let’s talk about how to develop the right habits in children to make oral hygiene easy and fun.
Good Habits
Early adoption of healthy oral hygiene practices helps avoid cavities, gum disease, and foul breath. They promote general health and a lifetime of self-confidence in a radiant smile.
- Brushing Twice a Day
Brushing in the morning gets rid of bacteria that build up during the night. Cleaning one’s teeth at night gets rid of food particles that have accumulated between them and will surely cause decay. Children must develop the habit of brushing twice a day and flossing before brushing at night. - Proper Brushing
Children must use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush twice a day. Plaque is removed and cavities are avoided with gentle, circular motions on all surfaces of the teeth for at least two minutes. Make sure they are supervised properly. - Daily Flossing
Flossing must be done before brushing the teeth at night. It cleans food particles and plaque out of the spaces between teeth that are inaccessible to a toothbrush. Teach the children how to floss the right way:Break off about 18 inches of floss. Wrap most of it around one middle finger and the rest around the other middle finger. Hold the floss tightly between the thumbs and forefingers. Then, gently slide up and down the side of the teeth. Finally, don’t forget the back of the last teeth. - Regular Dental Checkups
Visiting the dentist every six months with the child is important. Dentists get rid of plaque and detects cavities early when the young one drops in for a checkup. With this routine appointment, parents can make sure that their children will have strong teeth, healthy gums, and an awareness of the importance of dental health.
Fun Ways
Oral hygiene for kids is more likely to be effective when it’s made enjoyable for them. The examples provided below support the development of enduring habits for strong gums, healthy teeth, and a radiant smile.
- Kiddie Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes designed for children make brushing more interesting. If your son loves Spidey, a toothbrush with a Spiderman image would be more appealing to use when you say, “Let’s go brush, Peter.” - Flavored Toothpaste
Kids will find brushing more pleasant when using toothpaste with flavors of their choice. They lessen brushing resistance with tasty flavors like strawberry or bubblegum. - Family Time
The children brushing their teeth with Mom and Dad make dental hygiene a family activity, and this can be a fun routine. On top of that, parents can check if the young ones are doing it properly. - Kiddie Music
Incorporating two-minute songs for kids in this routine can be entertaining for them and it tells them how much further they should go. Look up good ditties on YouTube for children to brush their teeth along with.
Small Teeth, Big Responsibility
Congratulations! You are now somebody who can pass on good oral hygiene habits to children. There are the must-do’s that the kids will thank you for and the ingredients of fun they’ll remember you by. When it’s time to visit the dentist, bring them over to Mountain Home Dentistry. Call us for an appointment at 208-587-1111.