Tips and Strategies from Your Kid’s Dentist in Westminster

Your child’s dental health and oral hygiene are a top priority as a parent. However, teaching children proper dental hygiene can be challenging, especially for small children. It is imperative to make tooth brushing fun to instill lifelong oral health habits. 

Your kid’s dentist in Westminster is here to boost your family’s oral health. Brushing doesn’t have to be a bore. Please read below for a few of our recommended strategies to get you started:

Dental Health Education Resources

Fundamental dental care starts with an educational approach. Read age-appropriate books and pediatric dentist-approved videos about dental hygiene and tooth decay. Your child will love the time you spend together learning about healthy oral health habits.

Brushing and Flossing is a Family Affair

Setting an example as a parent is one of the most powerful tools. So, brush and floss at least twice daily with your children for at least two minutes each time. 

For younger children, you can even have them practice on your teeth. Guide them to brush the front teeth and the chewing surface on the back teeth. Show them how to hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle along the gum line and how to brush your tongue. A ‘family brushing party’ routine will establish consistency and be worth the effort.

Create a Two-minute “Contest” 

Adults and children should brush their teeth for two minutes twice daily with fluoride toothpaste to eliminate food particles and bad breath. To make brushing fun, make a game by setting a two-minute timer. The “winner” must brush for two minutes without stopping. This game will create a sense of friendly competition and motivate your kids to brush properly.

Get Your Child a Special Toothbrush

Indulge your child with a special toothbrush of their choosing. You’ll find that adapting the toothbrushing process into a game with “toys” can be a unique way to make cleaning your teeth fun.

Make brushing and flossing something that catches kids’ attention by rewarding their behavior. Start small by choosing a simple gold star when kids brush and floss as instructed. Once kids have the mechanics of brushing in place, reward their consistency. Create a weekly brushing calendar where each week of perfect daily brushing gets them a bigger reward.

Going to the Dentist is a Special Occasion

Going to the dentist can mean fun for every member of your family. Adult patients should pass excitement to their families. It is a great way to alleviate anxiety and reinforce positive associations with dental visits.

Let your kids know that going to the dentist is the crowning achievement of your child’s hard work for learning proper brushing habits. 

Get the Tooth Fairy Involved

Did you know that the tooth fairy pays more for teeth that are clean and cavity-free? Share this fact with your children; it will go a long way to motivate them to brush often.

Visit Your Kid’s Dentist in Westminster

Young Dentistry for Children are advocates for your child’s lifelong dental health. We are committed to helping educate your children about proper dental hygiene.

We strive to make every dental experience as extraordinary as your child. Visit Young Dentistry for Children in Westminster, Colorado, today!