Creative Cures: 3 Ideas to Help Kids Brush Their Teeth

As parents or guardians to growing children, one of your most significant responsibilities is helping your kid(s) learn positive habits that help them grow into happy, healthy adults. However, many children resist certain tasks if they feel like chores, and caring for their smile is no exception. Brushing and flossing is a simple and effective way to prevent potential problems, but unfortunately, it can be challenging to convince smaller children to establish a daily dental hygiene routine.

If your little one refuses to clean their mouth, you might encourage more active participation by introducing some fun into their routine! Continue reading to learn 3 things you can try to get your kid to brush and floss more regularly!

Helpful Hint #1: Let Them Choose

One reason younger kids avoid certain activities is because they never play an active role in any of the decision-making. When everything is decided for them, they might feel powerless or out of control, and don’t want to be involved. Although you don’t want to let them decide whether or not they brush and floss their teeth, you can give them decision-making authority over other factors that encourage their active participation.

For instance, you can have them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste the next time you’re at the store. There are a myriad of options, so they’re sure to find something they like. Whether it’s a soft-bristled toothbrush in their favorite color or a fruity-flavored toothpaste that won’t trigger sensitivity, having an active say in some decisions can make a big difference.

Helpful Hint #2: Be Consistent

Kids tend to respond better to various tasks when they’re part of a routine that they can rely on. That means starting their dental hygiene routine at the same time every morning and evening helps them learn that healthy habits require consistency and practice. Why not set an alarm (perhaps with a fun tune rather than a high-pitched buzzing) to remind them when it’s time to get started?

You can also set a timer, sing a song, or put on their favorite music to pass the time to encourage them to brush their teeth for a full 2 minutes, as recommended.

Helpful Hint #3: Do It Together

Did you know that kids who brush and floss their teeth alongside their parents or guardians are less likely to get cavities? This could be partly because children learn by mimicking the behaviors and patterns of adults in their lives. Seeing you complete your daily dental hygiene routine without complaint teaches them to do the same.

If these ideas don’t work for your family, don’t be afraid to think outside of the box! Creative problem-solving can lead to new games and other ways to help your kid brush their teeth.

About the Practice

Patients at Chicago Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics benefit from a team of experts dedicated to helping children build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. With pediatric dentists and orthodontists on staff, they can meet all your little one’s oral care needs conveniently under one roof. Their warm and welcoming practice is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate results to guide still-developing grins. If you’re concerned about cavities or gum disease, you can request an appointment on the website or call (312) 766-0995.