How To Encourage Children To Brush Their Teeth

Encouraging children to brush their teeth is one of those things that are easier said than done. We’re told time and time again about the importance of children keeping their teeth clean; however encouraging little ones to do so can be a right nightmare.

Children love to seem grown up and if you brush your teeth with them, then they will be far more likely to want to do so. If you’re cleaning your teeth the chances are they’ll want to copy.

 Children’s Toothpaste

Yes, it may be a marketing gimmick; however child friendly toothpaste with all its colours and marketing ploys will make children more willing to brush. In addition, these toothpastes are often flavoured to provide a more pleasant experience, especially important as children may swallow some of the toothpaste.

 Brush

Bright, colourful tooth brushes are a lot more likely to be used by children than drab looking ones. So, choose a brush with a vibrant colour, as this will ensure children will relish cleaning teeth.

 Rewards

Negotiating with children will make them more inclined to brush teeth. Offer them something in return. NHS Dentist Hampstead Orthodontic Practice suggest a star or sticker chart is often a good way to encourage them to keep their teeth clean and also makes sure you can see when they’ve brushed or haven’t.

By brushing teeth at routine times of the day, you will provide a backbone for the future. Brushing at set times will help children, who love routine, to remember to do so. So, try and encourage regularity.

 Brushing

Some children will want to impress and will brush their
teeth at all times of the day. If they want to do this let them. In fact, encourage them as it will be more likely brushing teeth will be a habit for the future.

Some younger children may not be able to brush their own teeth. However, it’s a good idea to give them a second toothbrush to hold when you brush their teeth as it will encourage them to do so in the future and distract them when you brush in the present.

 Sleep

If you have serious issues with your child and they don’t want their teeth to be brushed at all, then you can always try to do so when they are asleep. Younger children sleep so deeply that brushing when they are asleep wont wakes them. It also prevents serious issues in the future.

If they are a little older and still won’t do it, then a good idea is to get everyone in the family to brush their teeth when the child looks on. Children hate being left out and doing this will encourage them to join in.

These tips should help you around any issues you have with your children and dental hygiene and set up the basics for the long term.