“No! I don’t want to brush my teeth!” Mums and Dads, does this sound familiar to you? Do you find it difficult to get your children to brush their teeth? Do you wish to make brushing time easier for your children and yourself?
Tooth decay could be common in young children who are not familiar with how to brush their teeth, and it is essential to address dental hygiene education from a young age. Teaching kids about oral hygiene from an early age sets them up for a lifetime of healthy habits. However, engaging children in oral care routines can be a challenge.
In this blog, we will explore some creative approaches and practical tips to make oral care practices more enjoyable for children.
5 fun ways to encourage children to brush their teeth
1. Lead by Example
Children are highly influenced by the behaviour of their parents or the people frequently around them. For example, if you inadvertently brush your teeth too forcefully, it's likely that children will mimic this incorrect technique.You can set a good example by showing proper oral hygiene practices and show the children the proper steps of brushing teeth. Let your kids observe you when you brush your teeth and you can even encourage your children to brush their teeth together next to you. This will not only show them the importance of oral care but brushing together with your children could also be a small bonding time.
2. Strawberry or Orange? Red or Yellow?
There are a variety of oral care products available specially designed for children. Encourage your child to be involved in selecting their own toothbrush and toothpaste. They might prefer to choose their favourite cartoon characters or colourful designs that allows them to feel fun and more willing to brush their own teeth.
Toothpaste in fruity flavours that children will love, such as Darlie Bunny Kids - Strawberry Flavour Toothpaste and Darlie Bunny Kids - Orange Flavour Toothpaste are not too minty for the children and they might prefer such flavours more.
Children can also be involved in choosing a toothbrush in their favourite colour, for this, we recommend the Jolly Junior Kids Toothbrushes (ages 2-6) / (ages 6-12). These toothbrushes feature Slim-Tip Soft Bristles and Anti-Slip handle design with a suction cup base that children can simply place on the counter top after brushing.
3. Make Brushing a Fun Activity
Transforming brushing into a fun activity can motivate children to take care of their oral health. For instance, incorporate music into their brushing routine by playing their favourite songs during brushing.
In addition, use a unique pump toothpaste such as Darlie Bunny Kids Apple Fantasy Pump Toothpaste , to create the fun element during the tooth-brushing. Also, a pump toothpaste could be easier for children to dispense toothpaste themselves without the help of an adult.
4. Storytelling and Books
Storytelling is a powerful tool for teaching kids important lessons. Look for children's books or stories that talk about the importance of brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist. Engage your child in conversations about the learnings from the stories. This can foster a positive attitude towards dental hygiene for the children.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups
Last but not least, regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Find a dentist who specialises in children’s dental care. These dentists often have kid-friendly environments and use gentle techniques to make the experience less intimidating. Explain to your child what to expect during the dental visit and emphasise the importance of check-ups for keeping their teeth healthy and strong.
Instilling good oral hygiene habits in children is a valuable investment in their overall health and well-being. By using creative methods, we can make oral hygiene a lasting habit for young children.