It can be difficult to get your children to invest their time in brushing and flossing when they think their time is better spent watching TV or playing video games. So, if you seem to be struggling to get your kids to practice proper oral hygiene, Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk, who are dentists at a family-oriented dental office in Miami, FL, with another location in North Miami Beach, FL, have put together a few tips to make oral hygiene fun for your child.
Brush Your Teeth Together
Many kids want to be just like their parents, so there is a good chance that they will be more willing to brush their teeth if you’re brushing yours. Here, you are practicing what you preach. Further, your child will learn how to brush their teeth properly since they can watch how you do it. You can also ensure they are brushing their teeth properly without hovering over them.
Of course, if you are ever unsure whether your child is brushing and flossing properly, a dentist at our family dental office in Miami, FL, can show you and your child the ropes!
Let Your Child Pick Their Brushing Tools
Rather than buying a toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, allow them to pick their own. Take your child to the store and let them pick out a toothbrush that “speaks” to them. They can pick one with their favorite cartoon character or just their favorite color. They can also choose a toothpaste of a tasty flavor rather than a minty one.
Create a Reward System for Encouragement
Children tend to be extremely motivated when they are getting something in exchange for doing something. You can start by creating a chart that allows you to keep track of when your child brushes and flosses their teeth. Each time can be marked off with a stamp or sticker. At the end of the week, your child can receive a reward based on how well they did with their oral hygiene routine. The reward can be a small allowance, a trip to the store to pick out a small toy, or something else of your choice.
Finding the Right Dentist
Other than finding ways to make your child have fun with oral hygiene at home, you also want to ensure you take your child to a dentist with whom your child feels comfortable. Call (305) 532-1444 or (305) 949-2630 to schedule an appointment at our family-oriented dental office in Miami Beach, FL, or North Miami Beach, FL, with Dr. Ressler, Dr. Hirschl, or Dr. Lelchuk. We’ll help ensure your child feels comfortable and help you get your child on the right track with their oral hygiene routine.