7 Ways To Get Your Child To Brush

Begin Early:

Baby’s gums ought to be kept clean with gauze. The minute the first tooth erupts, use a finger brush. Getting a child used to his teeth will allow him/her to be more receptive to the idea of brushing later on.

 

Modelling:

The parent is the first role model of the child and children adore the act of mimicking their parents. They are incredibly sharp at picking up things from looking at adults and you can use this to your advantage. This will instil healthy brushing habits in them from an early age. Show your children how to properly brush your teeth and let them see how much fun you are having while doing that. This will encourage your child to pick up their tooth brush and join in the fun, and you can then teach them the proper technique of brushing their teeth.

Flavored toothpaste:

Children who relish the flavour of their toothpaste are more likely to brush their teeth habitually. There are lots of different toothpastes available in the market. These pastes are in different colors and flavors, while also maintaining the proper oral dental standards of proper teeth cleaning. You can let the child pick their own favorite toothpaste and brush as this will encourage them to brush regularly.

Suitable toothbrush:

A Toothbrush should not be too hard. It should have a small head so that it fits into the tiny mouth of kids. Take your child along while picking a toothbrush for him/her. That way the child feels involved and will cooperate for tooth brushing. Nowadays you can actually find toothbrushes at any convenience store that are designed in cute shapes and after Disney cartoons and fun characters. For special children the electric brush can be used as it is more effective in the removal of plaque.

Make brushing a fun ritual:
In this day and age innumerable toothbrushes with cartoon characters are available to make brushing entertaining. There are brushes which light up and have tunes of melody in them. You can put on a distinctive brushing song to boost them to brush. One way to get around this  hurdle to let them do their favorite activity while brushing their teeth. Allow them to take their favorite toy to the washroom, in order to watch the brushing or make up a teeth brushing story.

Reward charts:
For older children you can print out a chart so that they can keep track of their daily brushing. And at the end of the week you can reward them. This will enhance their morale and will strive to do better each week.

Educational Tools:

Minors often pay more attention to messages that they receive from outsiders. Use a pop-up book or watch videos. Also make a visit to the paediatric dentist wherein the dentist shows the accurate brushing skill which may help. Talk about your own dental appointments in a positive manner. Give your child the opportunity to ask questions about what happens during a dental appointment to eliminate the sense of mystery that often leads to children being afraid of going to the dentist.

Also read more about: FAQs answered on your child’s dental health: Dr Varsha Daryanani, Paediatric dentist