It’s very important to keep your child’s teeth healthy from an early age. Teaching them good oral hygiene habits early on is a valuable skill they will carry throughout their life. However, getting children to practice these habits consistently can sometimes be a challenge. One effective way to encourage them is to make brushing and flossing a family activity, allowing them to join in and learn by watching you and other family members.
Why Start Early?
Many parents assume that children don’t need to take care of their baby teeth because they will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth. However, the truth is that a child’s teeth play an important role in how they eat, chew, and speak. They also influence how the permanent teeth will grow in. That’s why caring for baby teeth is essential. It not only protects your child’s current oral health but also helps them develop good dental hygiene habits early on—ensuring they can properly care for their adult teeth when they appear.
How to Help Your Child Brush
Since children often don’t understand the importance of brushing, they may try to avoid it. The best approach is to explain why brushing is important in a way they can understand. For example, you can tell them that food can get stuck between their teeth and, if not cleaned through regular brushing and flossing, it can cause cavities, tooth decay, and other dental problems.
One effective way to help your child learn early is by letting them imitate your good dental habits. Brushing together is a fun, bonding activity that also reinforces healthy behavior.
Let Your Child Choose Their Toothbrush and Toothpaste
These days, children’s toothbrushes and toothpaste are designed to easily grab kids’ attention. The next time you go shopping together, let your child pick a toothbrush featuring their favorite character and a toothpaste they like. This makes brushing more fun and interesting for them. There are also plenty of child-friendly toothpaste flavors that are milder than many adult options, making the experience more pleasant.
Tip: Always check that the toothpaste contains fluoride and is age-appropriate.
How Much Toothpaste to Use
– Under 3 years old: A smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.
– Ages 3–6: A pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Using the right amount ensures effective cleaning while reducing the risk of swallowing too much fluoride.
Start a Routine
Following a routine is essential for helping your child develop a healthy brushing habit. Brushing together in the morning can create an awareness in their mind that this is something they should do every day. By making brushing and flossing a daily practice, you help instill a habit that leads to long-term benefits for their teeth and overall oral health.
Tip: Use a timer or play a two-minute song to make brushing more fun and ensure they brush for the right amount of time.
When to Start Flossing
Flossing should begin as soon as your child’s teeth start to touch. At first, you’ll need to do it for them, but as they grow, you can teach them how to do it themselves. Daily flossing prevents plaque buildup between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.
Provide Some Motivation
Motivation can go a long way in improving your child’s brushing habits. Find out what excites them and use it as encouragement until brushing becomes a regular part of their day. For example, if they’ve been wanting a particular toy, you could set up a reward system where they can earn it only after consistently brushing their teeth twice a day.
If your child is motivated by praise and approval, be sure to let them know how proud you are each time they brush their teeth.
Regular Dental Checkups
Even with good brushing habits at home, regular dental checkups are essential. Your child should visit the dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and examination. These visits can catch early signs of cavities or misalignment and help reinforce the importance of oral care.
Teaching good dental hygiene habits can be challenging, but when the whole family works together, it becomes much easier. By starting early, making brushing fun, and setting a consistent routine, you’re giving your child the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. For personalized guidance on your child’s dental health, you can consult the dentists at Lakewood Dental Smile.
