Teaching your little ones new things is one of the most exciting – and sometimes challenging – aspects of being a parent. Watching your child perfect a new skill is truly a joyful moment. There’s nothing quite like hearing, “I did it!” from a kiddo who is proud to show you that they have mastered what you have taught them. When it comes to how to teach your child to brush their teeth, it’s not always easy to know how to start. Keep reading to learn more about what we suggest.
Monkey See, Monkey Do
Our first tip to teach your kids how to brush is the same thing you have surely done to teach them so many other things. Show them! For example, demonstrate brushing your teeth for your kids. Show them how you use your toothbrush and that it does not hurt. Tell them that we all brush our teeth every day to keep our teeth and bodies healthy and our smiles happy!
Use Technology
Kids love anything interactive! Look for YouTube videos or other kids programing that talk about brushing your teeth. Here are some we love.
- Super Simple Songs – Brush Your Teeth
- Mickey Mouse – Brush to the Beat
- Sesame Street – Healthy Teeth, Healthy Me
Make Brushing a Family Activity
Kids love doing things together. Especially things that make them feel like big boys or big girls. Include your kiddos in your brushing routine – or better yet – alter your routine to fit theirs. Even if their bedtime is hours before yours, go ahead and brush with them. (If you need to brush again before you go to bed, you will get bonus brushing points!) If you can make brushing as a family into a game – even better!
Master the Proper Technique
Make sure that you know the right way and for how long to brush your child’s teeth. Two minutes is the best amount of time to brush, and it should be done twice a day. That combined with the correct brushing technique is the best way to keep kid’s teeth clean and healthy.
Here are our five easy brushing steps:
- Use the right amount of toothpaste. According to the American Pediatric Dental Association, use a rice-sized smear for children 0-3 and a pea-sized amount for kids older than 3.
- Get the right angle. Use a 45-degree angle, where the toothbrush is facing towards the gums.
- Brush gently and with the right technique. For example, move the brush back and forth with short strokes about the size of a tooth. Be sure to brush the front, back, and top the teeth.
- To brush the front of the teeth, make sure to hold the toothbrush in a vertical – or up and down – position.
- Don’t forget the tongue! A a result of teaching your kids to brush their tongue will help remove bacteria.
You Got This!
Before you know it, your kid is going to be brushing like a pro. Remember to make brushing fun and reassure kiddos that it doesn’t hurt. Talk about the benefits of a healthy happy smile and tell your kids that they have the power to make it happen! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is always here to help!