How do you convince your child to brush their teeth?

“Mom I am so tired,” “But daddy my favorite cartoon is on,” we all heard every excuse on the planet. Whether its 6 o’clock in the morning or 8 o’clock at night, most kids try to get out of brushing and flossing. Here are a few tips to encourage brushing & make it a daily routine.

 It takes 21 days or 3 weeks to form a habit. Having a routine will help make this habit form.

Start them young

Its never to early to teach your children good oral health! Cleaning the gums around 6 months can guide you in the right direction. Never put a baby down with a bottle of any liquid other than water!

Apps

There are many apps to help aid your child in brushing. Apps are fun and interacting. Disney Magic Timer, Oral-B & Happy teeth are examples of some. Disney Magic Timer helps track time but also teaches children about oral health!

6 month check ups

It is very important your child stays up to date on his/hers 6 month cleaning appointments. Not only does your healthcare professional clean your child’s teeth but they also teach your child how to maintain a healthy smile. We teach patients how to brush, floss & eat healthy.

Disclosing Solution

Disclosing Solution is in a liquid or tab form and makes the plaque on your child’s teeth stain a bright color. Wherever the teeth are stained is where the child forgot to brush. Children usually have fun trying this out! (TIP: have the child brush first then use the tab/liquid to see exactly where the child missed, then brush again.)