Tips for Brushing A child can learn about the proper way to care for his or her teeth while still very young. Brushing is something that needs to become a habit. At first, the most important thing is that your child will brush. After a while, you can start on technique. Here at NC Pediatric Dentistry, we want to help you teach your kids that they need to brush their teeth. Here are some tips that might help.Tips for Getting Your Child to BrushYou already know that your child will mimic the things that you do. That is why one of the best ways to encourage your child to brush is to let him or her see you do it. Bring your child into the bathroom with you, and the two of you can brush together. Your child will want to copy what you are doing, and then brushing will become a habit. Reward your child each day that he or she brings up wanting to brush. Buy a cute calendar and hang it on the wall in your bathroom. Use stickers as a reward. Each day that your child reminds you that it is time to brush, a sticker is added for that day. Never yell at your child for not brushing. It should not become a fight between the two of you. Instead, use the reward system. If you use the calendar idea, give your child a small reward each month that has a sticker for every day. The reward also does not have to be an expensive toy. There are plenty of different flavors of toothpaste that are made for children. Go ahead and try different flavors. You could have three different flavors, one for after each meal, or maybe you can use the excitement of trying a new flavor as a way to get your child to want to finish the current tube. Make Brushing FunDifferent toothbrushes can also add to the fun for a child. If your child has a favorite movie or character, buy a toothbrush that will match. You can do the same thing as with the toothpaste; have three different toothbrushes that represent the three meals each day. Children love to act out what they are learning. Find a stuffed animal or a doll that has teeth and let your child play dentist. Encourage your child to brush the toy's teeth. Your child will be able to practice, and the child will also feel in control of the situation. It can be difficult to teach a child how long to brush. Look for a two-minute brushing song and play it while you brush together. One of the most important things that you can do to encourage your child to brush is to supply lots of praise. Here at NC Pediatric Dentistry, we know that if your child develops good habits now, they will last a lifetime. Call tbd if you have any questions about brushing. If your child has not yet been to our office, call the same number to make an appointment for the first visit. |
 A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCENC’s Premier network of pediatric dental practices is committed to delivering a full suite of trusted, comfortable, and informative oral care services. With kid-centric spaces and experiences, we teach kids how to care for their smiles. |
