Healthy Brushing habits are just as important for kids as they are for adults, and parents can have the most impact on their child’s lifetime of oral hygiene. So how can you begin teaching your child healthy brushing habits?
Teach by Example
Be an example of thorough and comprehensive oral hygiene for your kids. Show them that healthy brushing habits include brushing 2 times a day for 2 minutes, flossing well, and proper use of toothpaste and mouthwash. Let them see how you do it. Teaching your child begins by being a good example of good oral hygiene.
Make It Fun
Oral hygiene doesn’t have to be a boring chore! Show your kids what fun it can be! Listen to music and dance while you’re brushing! Look for brushing apps and games geared towards kids, find the tools you need to show them that prioritizing your health is fun AND good!
Give them Incentive
Sticker charts, immediate rewards, whatever will help motivate your child can be a powerful tool. You can even couple up several healthy habits in one swoop by reading a story together directly after brushing, teaching your child the importance of good oral hygiene and the power of reading!
Another way to couple rewards with healthy habits is to use a brushing app to encourage healthy habits, but follow with 5 minutes of gameplay on another favorite app. The options are endless! Use what you know about what motivates your child to help them grow a commitment to healthy brushing habits.
Include Them
Include them in choosing what to use to motivate them, which tools invigorate and encourage them. Let them pick out a cool toothbrush, and their favorite kind of toothpaste (just so long as it is ADA approved) give them ownership in their oral hygiene, and they may be more invested in healthy brushing habits.
Call our Avondale, Gilbert or Mesa dental office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.