Creative Ways to Get Your Kids Involved in Their Oral Hygiene Routines

Posted on 5/10/2021 by Fariba Mutschler

You can get your kids to brush their teeth – with enthusiasm. Fortunately, today, several dental aids and methods are available that can help you do just that.

Turn Brushing the Teeth into a Fun Game

Before you turn tooth brushing into a fun game or activity, it is important to emphasize that your child brushes their teeth twice a day for 2 minutes. The longer you brush, the more plaque is removed, so you need to convey this message. To make tooth brushing fun, challenge your child to brush part of their teeth while watching TV during commercial breaks. By the time they are done brushing a part of their mouth, they can return to viewing the show. Another way is to set an egg timer with colorful sand. Turn over the time, telling your child to brush until the sand reaches the bottom. You might also try buying a toothbrush that plays music or blinks for the allotted 2 minutes.

Download an App

The free app Brush DJ plays tunes while your child brushes and includes reminders to brush twice each day, floss daily, use a mouthwash, and maintain dental visits. The app is free, so download it and share it with your child. Get him or her in the habit of a toothbrushing and flossing routine.

Encourage Your Child with Rewards

Besides using the above tools and techniques, it also helps create a rewards chart – giving your child credit each time they brush for 2 minutes. For example, some of the rewards might include staying up a few minutes later past bedtime or selecting the next movie for family movie night. Do not forget to praise your child for brushing and for his or her sparkly teeth. Sometimes, you can use something relatable to get your child to brush as well. For example, have your child practice brushing their stuffed animal's teeth or read a story or share a board book about the importance of tooth care.

You can find ways and tools to give your child the incentive to brush and take care of their daily oral hygiene. We are here to help as well. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment and exam.

My daughter was a little nervous to have her dental work done but everyone in the office was super friendly and very reassuring and that helped her nervousness go away. Thanks for the excellent dental experience. ~ Lilyana G.

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Our Dental Blog | Great Grins Pediatric Dentistry - Portland, OR
Dr. Fariba Mutschler & Dr. Mark Mutschler have created this informative blog to help educate the community. If you like an article or the dental blog in general please use the share it button to post to Facebook, Twitter, or Google+.
Great Grins for KIDS Portland, 13908 SE Stark Street, Ste C, Portland, OR 97233-2161; (971) 470-0054; portlandchildrensdentist.com; 3/22/2023; Related Phrases: pediatric dentist Portland;