With the new school year already started, it’s time for parents and teachers to start teaching kids about proper oral hygiene habits. Brushing is an important part of good oral health, so it’s essential that children learn how to do it correctly from a young age. Unfortunately, many kids have difficulty brushing their teeth or don’t enjoy doing it. That’s why we’ve put together this list of tips and tricks to help you teach your child how to brush properly.
1. Choose the Right Toothbrush
The most important part of teaching kids how to brush is choosing the right toothbrush. Kids’ toothbrushes should be age-appropriate and easy for them to handle. It’s also important that they are using a toothbrush with soft bristles so they don’t damage their enamel or gums while brushing. If your child is younger than three, you can use a special toddler toothbrush that has extra-soft bristles.
2. Set A Timer
Many parents find it helpful to set a timer as part of their kid’s oral hygiene routine. Setting a timer for two minutes will help remind them to brush for long enough and ensure that they are brushing for the full recommended time. You can also turn it into a game by seeing how many times they can brush in two minutes or having them try to beat their own best time.
3. Make It Fun
Brushing doesn’t have to be boring! There are plenty of ways you can make brushing more enjoyable. You can let your child pick out their own toothbrush, or find one with their favorite character on it. If they like music, you could play some while they brush. Or you could buy a special timer that has fun sounds and lights when the time is up.
4. Don’t Rush Through It
It’s important that your child takes their time while brushing, to make sure they are doing it properly. Encourage them to focus on each tooth and make sure the bristles are reaching all the way back to their molars. Depending on how old your child is, you may need to help them brush at first until they’re able to do it by themselves.
5. Reward Your Child
Rewarding your child for good oral hygiene is a great way to encourage them to keep up with their brushing routine. You can give them stickers or small treats after every successful brushing session, or let them pick out a special toothbrush or flavored toothpaste if they’ve been especially diligent about brushing daily.
Conclusion
Teaching kids how to brush their teeth properly is an important part of promoting good oral health. With the right tools and techniques, you can make brushing fun and easy for your child. We hope these tips will help you get started on teaching your child healthy brushing habits!
A: The American Dental Association recommends that kids brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
A: Kids’ toothbrushes should have small heads so they can easily reach all areas of their mouths. If your child has trouble holding onto their toothbrush, you can look for one with a larger handle.
A: The ADA recommends that kids brush for two minutes, twice a day. You can use a timer to make sure your child is brushing for the full recommended time.