Creative Ideas to Help Your Kids Brush

Getting your kids to take care of their teeth can be challenging. At some point, in fact, many kids go “on strike” against brushing and flossing – and this can lead to poor oral hygiene habits and lifelong dental problems. Poor oral health can have other consequences too: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that kids with poor oral health are more likely to miss school and get lower grades.

Fortunately, there are ways to get your kids enthusiastic about brushing and flossing! Our pediatric dentist at Sunshine Smiles has many creative ideas to help your kids brush.

5 Creative Ideas to Help Your Kids Brush

Determine why your kids are resisting

Kids will be kids, and sometimes kids simply resent being told what to do. At other times, though, kids resist doing something because it hurts – and this may be true when it comes to brushing and flossing. Some children experience tooth sensitivity when their teeth first come in, and brushing or flossing can make this sensitivity even worse.

Talk with your kids to find out why they fight brushing, and take any necessary steps to make it more comfortable.

Play music to help your kids brush

Let’s face it – brushing and flossing can be boring and time-consuming. Listening to music can make the time go by faster. For best results, choose upbeat songs that last about as long as it takes your child to brush and floss.

Make an “I Did It!” sticker chart

Print out or draw a “I Brushed My Teeth” sticker chart and give your child a fun sticker to add to it every time they brush and floss correctly.

Let them choose

Manufacturers offer a wide variety of colorful, fun toothbrushes, toothpastes, and flosses. Your child will love slathering bubblegum- or fruit-flavored toothpaste on their favorite superhero toothbrush!

Have a toothbrushing party

Invite the entire family in for a toothbrushing party! While oral care is serious business, you can still have fun!

For more creative ideas to help your kids brush, make an appointment with our children’s dentist in Melbourne at Sunshine Smiles. We specialize in treating infants, children, teens, and patients with special needs.