Proper oral hygiene is the best way to keep teeth healthy and strong for life, and it’s best to begin proper dental cleaning habits as soon as possible. While parents typically understand that it is essential for their kids to brush their teeth regularly, young children aren’t known for being eager about oral hygiene. Here are a few tips for teaching your child to brush their teeth so they can enjoy a lifetime with excellent oral health.
Brush Early, Brush Often
Cleaning your teeth can be uncomfortable if you’ve never done it before, so it’s best to start getting children used to it early. Before the teeth begin to erupt, clean an infant’s gums with a damp washcloth after feedings. As the teeth begin to emerge, start cleaning them after feedings with a tiny amount of toothpaste and a finger brush or small toothbrush. As more teeth appear, clean them regularly with a small toothbrush. Teaching a child to brush their teeth independently can be a lot easier if they already know what it feels like.
Explain Why Oral Hygiene Is Important
As your child comes to understand speech, explain to them why oral hygiene is important in a way they can understand. Tell them that teeth need to be kept clean to stay healthy, otherwise they will hurt, fall apart, and fall out. Help them know that a healthy mouth is an important part of a healthy body and that it can be harder to eat and easier to get sick if the mouth isn’t well taken care of.
Model Excellent Oral Hygiene for Them
Small children are often eager to show how grown-up they are, so modeling good habits can be a great way to get them on board with proper oral hygiene. Make teeth brushing a family activity so they can watch how you carefully and gently polish your teeth for at least two minutes every time. You can play a favorite song to make sure each session lasts long enough. You can even make a game out of it by telling your child that their toothbrush is their weapon and they must brush well to slay the horrific teeth-eating sugar monsters that live in their mouths.
Excellent oral health habits are some of the greatest gifts you can give your child. By helping your kid develop a proper dental hygiene regimen, you can help them maintain a beautiful and healthy smile for life.
About the Practice
Family Dental Center of East Texas delivers stellar dental health services in Center, TX. Led by Drs. Youngblood and Martinez, the friendly and skilled staff ensures that each patient receives courteous service and effective treatments. Areas of expertise include general, pediatric, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry. For more information on helping your child develop good oral health habits, contact the office online or dial (936) 427-9070.