How To Make Dental Hygiene Fun For Kids

Make dental hygiene fun for kids so they are engaged in the process of healthy oral care. The following tips will give both you and your kids reasons to smile more!

Make Dental Hygiene Fun for Kids – Do it Together

The secret to a happy kid is found in that quality time they get with their parents.  Make dental hygiene fun for kids by brushing and flossing together. This scenario is a win-win. Both of you improve your oral wellness while also creating some fun traditions and memories together.

Getting excited about this morning and evening routine element will get your kids excited too. Remember, kids learn more from your example then your words.  When you show a positive outlook on oral care, they will too.  Show them the correct steps for toothbrushing and flossing teeth by demonstrating on your teeth first.  Then help them do the same. Little mouths will need much more assistance from parents to help keep teeth and gums healthy.

Let Them Pick Out Their Toothbrush

Kids, both young and old, love to feel in charge. They love the freedom of making as many “grown-up” choices as they can.  When it is time to replace a toothbrush–every 3 months or when the bristles are showing wear–take them with you!  Let them pick out a favorite color or cartoon-character-inspired brush.

Double the fun by letting them choose the new tube of toothpaste as well. As long as both the toothbrush and the toothpaste have the ADA seal of acceptance, you are good to go.  (Also make sure that toothbrush sizes are appropriate for the age of your child.)

Consider Going Electric

While there is no real advantage choosing an electric brush or a standard brush, you can make dental hygiene fun for kids by introducing an electric toothbrush to change things up. Electric toothbrushes come in all different packages and themes for kids.  The newer brushes also come with a built in timer to make sure kids brush their teeth for the full 2-minutes recommeded by the American Dental Association.

Electric toothbrushes can make dental hygiene fun for kids because they vibrate on their teeth in gums in a unique way. Kids enjoy the massaging motion of an electric toothbrush and the sound and movement can be a distracting help.

Making a Dental Hygiene Rewards Chart

Positive encouragement goes a long way with goal-setting. Make dental hygiene fun for kids by helping them make and decorate a tracking chart.  Add columns for brushed teeth morning, brushed teeth evening, flossed, ate healthy, and maybe used mouthwash.  Each time your child performs these tasks let them put a sticker on their chart.  When the chart is full, consider some kind of reward or outing to celebrate.

Make Dental Office Visits Fun

Every six months, when your child has the opportunity to come to Li’l Sunshine Smiles for a dental exam with Dr. Botero and our friendly team, parents have the opportunity to frame the narrative around the visit.  Get excited! Help them look forward to getting their teeth polished and their mouth checked for health.

Make a tradition to do something special or fun following a dental visit. This helps the child have even more to look forward to then the time spent in our office. Time with their parents is golden to kids!

Need more tips on how to make dental hygiene fun for kids? Our experienced team at Li’l Sunshine Smiles can help you! Give us a call at (813) 576-0200!