If you are anything like me, it is almost impossible to get your children to brush their teeth. Bedtime is always a struggle. I get “I’m tooooooo tiiiirrreeeddd” (in the whiniest voice possible) “but I am already in bed” and numerous other excuses. Just the other night I asked “Did you guys brush your teeth?” they responded with a strong “yes” I said “then why is everyone’s tooth brush dry?” You know , one of my children said “ummmmm…… we used the blow dryer to dry them to create a more sterile environment so bacteria didn’t grow on our toothbrushes?” Needless to say, they all got up and brushed their teeth.
I realize it is a struggle to get your children to brush their teeth, just as much as the next parent. I have learned several tricks in my years as a parent and dental assistant to get little ones to brush. There are so many options in toothbrushes: favorite characters, ones that play music, ones that light up, and the list goes on and on. Let your child go with you to the store and pick out their own toothbrush. This will get them excited, and more than likely they will want to use it as soon as you get home.
With today’s technology it is easier to make brushing fun. There are downloadable apps for your phone or tablet, and tons of videos on YouTube to pass the time, so they get the full 2 minutes in. Here is a link to a few of my favorites:https://youtu.be/Jy8JurvYlH4 https://youtu.be/wxMrtK-kYnE https://youtu.be/-aY18vhaiNo If your child owns an Oral-B Disney toothbrush you can download the “Disney Magic Timer” app. This app allows your child to earn badges and awards, and they can brush along with the Disney characters.
The American Dental Association recommends that you assist your child in brushing until they are 8 years old, or a good rule of thumb is if your child can get dressed and tie their own shoes, they should have the dexterity to brush their own teeth.
With a healthy, low sugar diet, brushing twice daily, and checkups from your child’s dentist twice a year, your child will build strong hygiene habits and a lifetime love for their teeth.
-Donnetta W
