How to Make Brushing and Flossing Fun for Kids
Your oral health is an important part of your good overall health, which should start from childhood and continue all the way up to adulthood. Sometimes, we tend to get caught up in life and forget about our dental health, but you can make it fun–especially for kids. Children should learn to get the most out of their oral health routine.
Your little ones should understand that taking care of their teeth is just as important as washing their hands. You need to set an example for them and ease your child’s dental anxiety.
A good oral health routine is vitally important for kids because it prevents oral issues and boosts their confidence. After all, good oral health leads to a beautiful smile.
Making brushing and flossing fun
There are countless methods to make your brushing and flossing fun–if you become a little creative. For example, play an upbeat song when you join your child in brushing their teeth. Not only does it produce a pleasant experience, but also it’s a wonderful time to bond with your little one. Pick a song that lasts around two minutes because this is the recommended amount of time to brush your teeth.
Another idea is to buy a toothbrush with a cool design that you know for sure your child will love. Children are always happy using something that resembles their favorite television cartoon character or someone they admire–like a superhero. This gives them the feeling that their icon is there with them brushing their teeth as well.
In order for kids to enjoy their daily flossing, parents need to make this experience fun and easy. Most kids complain that their gums bleed when they brush their teeth. That shouldn’t be the case, so here is what to do: buy your child a type of floss that is intended for kids. There are flosses which are made for children. They are designed for children’s small mouths and sensitive gums. By using these products that are appropriate for them, you can establish a positive association between your child and their oral health.
Essential tips for parents to teach good oral care habits:
Monitor children who are less than eight years old. You have to make sure that they’re using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste when brushing their teeth. You also have to make sure that they spit out the toothpaste and not swallow it.
Make oral habits a family habit! Brush and floss your teeth with your children so that you can demonstrate brushing techniques that your child can follow throughout adulthood.
Buy the right-sized toothbrush for them. You need to have the appropriate toothbrush in order to provide great oral health care for your children. The design should also match the child’s level of development. Toddlers should have easy-to-grip and wide handles with small narrow heads and soft bristles. Older children should have slightly longer handles and larger heads to accommodate their growing mouths and teeth.