Ideas to Encourage Tooth Brushing
Brushing your teeth can be a challenge, and this is especially true for kids. Parents often feel at a loss about what to do to get their kids to brush their teeth.
Ideas for Brushing Your Teeth from Dentists Who Are Parents
The following are some ideas that various dentists came up with to encourage brushing. The American Dental Association (ADA) published an article containing their tips.
Setting a Good Example
Brushing your teeth at the same time is a good way to teach your kids to mimic what youdo. Stand beside them and step-by-step have them copy what you do.
As you brush your front teeth, they brush theirs, and then move onto the upper molars, each side. After you finish brushing the upper teeth, move to the lower teeth and lower molars. The whole brushing process should take two minutes. It’s important that they learn to spend a full two minutes brushing their teeth.
The other advantage of brushing your teeth together is you can make sure your kids are using the right amount of toothpaste. Children who are two years old and younger should use a smear of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Children, who are age three and older should use a drop of toothpaste about the size of a pea.
When they’re done brushing, there should be no more food between their teeth.
Healthy Food for Healthy Teeth
Many parents today also watch what their kids eat. After all, staying away from sugary foods and drinks can help prevent cavities. It’s a good idea to get kids in the habit of eating healthy while they’re young.
As they hit their teenage years and even when they’re off to college, it’s wise to check on their eating habits. They can get dental checkups when they’re home on break or use a dentist at their college.
Are You Concerned about Your Children’s Dental Care?
Make an appointment with one of our dentists at Hutto Hippo Family Dental. We can find help you with dental care for your children.
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