Teeth are one of those things that you hope to have for the rest of your life. And while we may not have understood the importance of good hygiene as kids, we get it now. So it is important to help our toddlers learn healthy, proper oral hygiene habits at an early age.
Not sure how to successfully teach a toddler to brush properly? Here are a few tips.
Let Your Toddler Have Choices
Kids love choices - even when it comes to teeth brushing. Let your child pick out his or her toothbrush (from a selection you picked, of course) as well as toothpaste. Sometimes just holding a toothbrush with their favorite character on it can make the whole event seem so much more exciting.
When you get home, show your toddler just how to place the toothpaste on the toothbrush - and just how much to use. This should be no more than a pea-sized amount.
Start Brushing
You are going to have to lower your expectations a little bit. Your toddler is not going to get that toothbrush to cover all the little crevices or areas within the mouth. He or she is going to reach the gum line - or may end up brushing more gum than teeth.
This is all ok. Right now it is more about developing healthy habits than it is about being perfect.
Brush Your Toddlers Teeth
Take turns brushing your toddler’s teeth. For instance, in the morning perhaps you brush his/her teeth and in the evening he/she does it. Or vice versa. The point is that you are allowing your child to have some responsibility without butting in. However, you are designated a time when it is your turn so that you can ensure the teeth are getting clean -- while also allowing your toddler to see and feel what teeth brushing is all about.
Do it Together
Toddlers always want to be like their parents. They want to receive the praise for a job well done - and be just like mom or dad. So why not brush teeth together? After all, even if you have already brushed yours, it won’t hurt you to do them again.
Showing that teeth brushing is something you do, too, and that you do together can be a great encouragement.
Make it Routine
While parenting, we learn over and over again how important structure and routine are to so many things in raising kids. The same is true for teeth brushing. Brushing teeth should happen in the morning before getting dressed, for instance. And before bed, right after putting on pajamas.
The more you incorporate teeth brushing into their daily routine, the less chance it will be forgotten.
Teaching Your Toddler Proper Brushing Techniques
Learning how to properly brush one’s teeth is a vital part of maintaining good oral hygiene. And, it starts with kids At Tender Smiles 4 Kids, we want you to give you the tools and resources necessary to help you teach your toddlers in ways they will understand.
Contact Tender Smiles 4 Kids at any one of our convenient locations:
North Brunswick Office: 732-249-1010
Schedule your consultation today!