HOW TO TEACH YOUR KIDS TO BRUSH THEIR TEETH

One of the important lessons to teach children is proper Tooth Brushing. The reason is quite obvious: regular tooth brushing improves oral health. Also, teaching kids while they are young is equivalent to helping them learn a good habit.

However, most parents will agree that it is quite a struggle to teach kids to brush their teeth. Often, children perceive this as a chore and will definitely find ways to avoid, if not resist, having to brush their teeth.

Explain the benefits



Before you drag your children to the bathroom sink, sit down with them to explain why you are about to teach them how to brush their teeth. Prepare a picture or an illustration showing the teeth, and what will happen to them if not properly taken care of. Emphasize that prevention is always better. Remember to entertain questions and answer the best way you can.

Buy a fun toothbrush



Kids like colorful toothbrushes that resemble toys. Make sure your child is with you on your next trip to the supermarket so he can choose his very own toothbrush. Afterwards, encourage him to take care of it, just like how he takes care of his toys. Remember to get a new toothbrush every 3 months. A fun toothbrush contributes to building up your child’s enthusiasm for brushing his teeth.

Lead by example



Show your child how to brush his teeth properly. More often than not, younger kids will find this quite difficult, so be sure to offer your help. It would also be a good parent-child bonding experience to brush your teeth together. This shows your child that brushing teeth is something that must be done by everyone, not just by kids.

Talk about your dentist



Explain to the child that there are some parts of the teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. Tell your child that it is his dentist who could clean these for him. Never threaten your child that you would bring him to the dentist if he does not brush his teeth. You should always tell your child that a dentist is a friend who helps people take care of their teeth.

Reward your child



Do not deprive your child of sweets and chocolates. Instead, explain that eating these kinds of food is okay, for as long as they are taken in moderation. Of course, teach your child to brush his teeth immediately after eating sweets..