Getting your child to brush his teeth can be quiet a chore at times, but you can't give up just because it's a hassle. You need to keep pushing your child to brush and take good care of his teeth to prevent cavities and other dental health issues. See below for some helpful tips on how to improve your child's oral health.
1. Let Your Child Choose Dental Products
Allow your child to pick out his own toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and other dental items. There are a number of different characters to choose from for any of these dental accessories to please just about any child. There's also a variety of toothpaste flavors, as adult toothpastes may be a little too minty for a younger child - choose a fruity children's toothpaste instead.
2. Brush Twice Daily
Make sure your child is brushing his teeth twice daily for two minutes at a time. Set a timer so your child understands what two minutes actually is. You can also have your child use an app on a tablet or cell phone that will help with brushing.
3. Brush Alongside Your Child
Brush your teeth alongside your child when he's brushing. You can help your child improve his brushing technique if he's watching you brush your teeth. You can make it fun by brushing each other's teeth or seeing who can brush for longer (than the 2 minutes).
4. Change Your Child's Diet
Improved oral health is more than just brushing your teeth. It's what you put into your body as well. If your child is eating candy and sugary snacks or juices all the time, your child may have more cavities and plaque. Change your child's diet to help improve his oral health. Introduce fresh fruits and fresh, green vegetables. Stick to whole grain breads and pastas. Try to limit juices and give your child more water to drink instead. Water helps rinse your teeth in between meals, keeps you hydrated and will help keep your gums healthy as well.
5. Set A Good Example
Set a good example by not only brushing your teeth twice daily, but by going to the dentist for regular checkups as well. Go to the dentist for your checkups at the same time your child goes to the dentist. Have your child watch your teeth get checked and cleaned as well. If your child sees you taking good care of your teeth, he'll in turn take good care of his as well. Instill good habits in your child by setting a good example.
Visit your dentist for regular checkups for your child and for you as well. Talk to the dentist about other ways to help improve your child's oral health.
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