Let’s face it: kids aren’t the best at maintaining their own hygiene. They’re learning so many new things all at once, and it’s hard for them to apply all of that information.
It’s your job as a parent to help them out.
Dental hygiene for children is crucial. Even when they still have their baby teeth, poor dental hygiene can lead to problems with their teeth and gums in the future.
We’re here to help you help them. Keep reading for our top dental hygiene tips for kids!
1. Lead by Example
Sometimes parents forget that children don’t come pre-programmed with all of the information that they need to maintain themselves. You have to teach them everything!
When you’re teaching your child how to brush their teeth, you need to show them by example. Brush your own teeth with them before their bedtime (even if you’ll be eating or drinking after they go to bed).
Show them the right way to floss and explain to them how important it is to have a clean mouth. If they don’t see you brushing their teeth, they won’t want to do it themselves. After all, children learn by copying.
2. Use Songs or Apps
There are plenty of helpful tools that can encourage your child to brush their teeth for the appropriate amount of time.
Children get bored easily. Brushing their teeth for 2 minutes might seem like a chore! Make that time interesting.
There are toothbrushes that play songs, but if that seems like an unnecessary expense, consider finding a song that lasts for 2 minutes on your own. Play it while your child brushes their teeth.
You can also use apps. These apps use games to encourage children to keep brushing, and they come in fun themes like Disney and Pokémon.
3. Observe Your Child
When you’re done teaching your child, you still need to observe them. Not only does this keep them safe, but it also lets you know if they’re doing things the right way. You don’t want them swallowing toothpaste or cutting their time short!
When your child is older, they may be unwilling to let you watch them. As children grow, they yearn for more independence.
As an alternative, make sure that you check their toothbrush when it’s time for bed. If it’s dry, they didn’t brush their teeth! Get them back into the bathroom to fix the problem.
4. Go to Regular Dentist Appointments
The most important thing that you can do for your child’s dental hygiene is to take them to the dentist. Pediatric dentists know how to handle problems that are unique to children, and they’ll also be able to give you good dental hygiene tips!
Your child should see the dentist twice per year for checkups and cleanings. Find out more about pediatric dentistry and make your appointment now!
Use These Dental Hygiene Tips for a Healthy Kid
If you take advantage of these dental hygiene tips, you’ll set your child up for great oral health in the future. Remember, while their teeth will fall out and new teeth will grow in, you still need to protect those baby teeth!
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