19 Jan How To Get Your Kids to Brush Their Teeth
It can be difficult to motivate young children and teens to brush their teeth regularly and properly. Children who do not brush effectively are prone to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems later in life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 25 percent of U.S. children ages 2 to 5 years and 50 percent of children aged 12 to 15 years are affected by tooth decay. So how can parents help their kids to avoid oral health problems? Below are some of our top tips for getting kids to brush regularly.
Get the Right Brush and Toothpaste
Have children use brushes with soft bristles so as not to damage their gums. Select a kid-friendly toothbrush design in your child’s favorite color. Replace the brush about every three months. Ask your children to help select the toothpaste of their choice too.
Teach Proper Brushing Techniques
Many younger children will think it is only necessary to brush their front teeth. Even older kids may not understand how to brush effectively and reach all of their teeth. Explain to children why they are brushing and share the risks of poor brushing habits. Use online resources like this quiz about teeth on KidsHealth.org to test your children’s knowledge.
Sing a Song
For the best results, kids should brush for about two minutes twice a day or after meals. To help children brush for two minutes at a time, you may want to use a tooth brushing song like this one from Elmo on Sesame Street. Or find a pop song that your kids like and have them brush for two minutes of the track.
Brush Together
Make brushing a family activity so you can lead by example. When you brush together, show your kids how to reach all of their teeth and even brush their tongue and gums gently. Taking care of your teeth together as a family will make brushing more fun!
To schedule a cleaning and exam for your family, contact the offices of John Carson, DDS, at (520) 514-7203. We help Tucson families keep their smiles healthy and beautiful.