Bedtime can be a testing time for parents. Not only do you have to calm the kids down but you also have to get them into their pyjamas, make sure they brush their teeth and of course actually get them into the bed.
While we can’t help you with all of those steps, we do have a few tips for one of them: the brushing of the teeth.
We spoke to oral health expert Dr Harold Katz about the best ways to instil good brushing habits in your children, thus helping to prevent cavities and tooth decay.
Here are 5 ways, courtesy of Dr Katz, to get your kids into a good routine when it comes to looking after those pearly whites…
1. Begin early
The earlier you stress the importance of healthy brushing and flossing habits, the better. That way, the process becomes routine and there is less of a daily struggle to get your children to practice healthy oral care.
2. Stay positive
According to A+ Dentistry in San Diego, giving positive feedback and reinforcement when it is time to brush teeth helps children. One method for encouragement is to create a sticker chart that rewards your children for brushing and flossing twice per day.
3. Set the example
NHS UK suggests that you can help your child by letting them see you brush your own teeth. If your kids see you brushing and flossing thoroughly and regularly, it will set the precedent and result in your children brushing more frequently and better.
4. Make it fun
Your kids should use dental hygiene supplies that are intended for children. They are smaller and also have other features that are important for youths. They are also typically more colourful and are decorated with appealing themes like cartoon characters. Get your young ones involved and let them pick their own!
5. Get creative
Make brushing time creative just as you would if you were playing a game with your child. Because it takes at least two minutes of brushing to get rid of bacteria and build up, turning on your child’s favourite song or show tune is a good option.
