Lorena Brockman is a blogger for JennsBlahBlahBlog.com and has notable know-how in blogging, health, family, and has been deemed “Greatest Auntie Ever” by many. To learn more about Lorena, visit her company’s blog at JennsBlahBlahBlog.com.
Kids are an excitable bunch. They get excited about new toys, fun movies, yummy candy, and it’s easy to hold their attention with games. On the other hand, oral hygiene isn’t something that grabs much interest when it comes to young children. Many parents have to fight to get their kids to brush, oss, or gargle with mouthwash.
Luckily, there are ways to get kids interested in their dental health. Here are ve ways to get kids excited about dental hygiene, which makes trips to the dentist much easier to handle.
1. Toothbrushes
Long ago, toothbrushes only had a variety of colors. Nowadays there are all sorts of brushes with all the “bells and whistles.” Brushes for kids light up, and some have timers that beep once they’ve brushed long enough. There are special characters from kids’ favorite television shows and movies too. Surprise your kid with their favorite cartoon character and they’ll be excited to share their brushing time with a new friend.
2. Toothpastes
Brushing is only one part of healthy teeth. Flossing and rinsing are just as important. Floss and mouthwash vary in color and flavors. There is bubblegum, vanilla, and even cotton candy to accompany a fun toothbrush. Allow your kids to choose which flavor and color they want and they won’t be able to use taste as an excuse for not flossing or rinsing.
3. Game On
Kids are competitive and turn almost anything into a game. Why not use the same idea for oral hygiene? Turn brushing into a competition by challenging your child to brush for an entire two minutes. Set a timer and brush with your kid to encourage them to complete the entire brush time. After, dare them to rinse for a full minute as a bonus round. They will want to prove they can. Of course, oer a prize afterward, like their favorite movie or a sweet, yet healthy, treat.
4. Rock On
Music is a great motivator for just about everything. Cleaning, cooking, working out, and even brushing. Use a fun, fast tune (about two minutes long) to set the mood for your child to brush. To get them more involved, let them choose the song. Also, join in while they are brushing, and dance along to keep them excited. It’s good for them to learn about how long to brush and it’s a great way to start the day. Mix up the music to keep the fun going, and use different songs for brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
5. Story Time
Telling kids the bare truth about plaque-causing bacteria in their mouths doesn’t sound exciting. Instead, make up a fun story that will let their imaginations soar and give them a more positive outlook on their dental hygiene. The tooth fairy is always a good character to focus on. Tell them how the tooth fairy only takes good teeth and pays more for healthy, white teeth. After they have lost a tooth and put it under their pillow, they’ll have something exciting to work for and a little spending money when the fairy comes.
Your children can be excited about dental hygiene; you just have to nd what best ts their interest. A good pediatric dentist can also help them be excited. Dentists and their sta make visits as fun as they can, and many foces even have play areas for kids. Find what works for your children and get their teeth shiny and clean for their next visit.
Click to request information and see what we can offer for your family’s dental health.