My Kid Hates Brushing Her Teeth. What can I do to change that?

Many parents struggle with getting their kids to practice good oral hygiene habits. However, it's important to remember that this is a common struggle, and there are things you can do to help your kids develop the right habits. These tips below can help promote 

Set a good example

Kids are extremely observant, and that can take a lot of different forms. They watch everything we do, from how we eat to how we take care of our teeth. If your kids probably watch you brush your teeth and start thinking about brushing their own teeth.

If you struggle with brushing your teeth, your kids will very likely struggle with brushing their teeth. Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things we can do to take care of our teeth. Not only does it remove the food that gets stuck on our teeth throughout the day, but it also removes plaque, which hardens into tartar and causes cavities. By not brushing your teeth, your kids are setting an example of something that can have serious health consequences.

Use an electric toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are designed to make brushing more fun for kids. They feature a variety of colors and designs, letting your child pick out their favorite one. Plus, many electric toothbrushes come with an array of fun, kid-friendly sounds.

Use flavored toothpaste

Use flavored toothpaste. Children's toothpaste comes in many different flavors, such as bubblegum, strawberry, and watermelon. Your child will probably enjoy the flavor, which will make them want to brush longer.

Brush your child's teeth until they're old enough to do it themselves

When your child gets their first tooth, it's time to start brushing. Not all children want to brush their teeth, but most are willing to do it when their parents make brushing a priority. Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time will help prevent tooth decay and keep their mouth healthy.

Use a reward chart

Many children become frustrated when they struggle to meet a goal. This is especially true when children don't see a direct benefit from their hard work.

An easy way to change your child's attitude about brushing their teeth is by using a simple rewards chart. Every time your child brushes and flosses their teeth, he or she earns a point. After a certain number of points, your child earns a prize.

As children get older, they will enjoy earning rewards for meeting their goals. You may find that your child completes their brushing routine much faster to earn points to reach their goal.

Take your child to the dentist regularly

Setting an appointment with a dentist every six months is an easy way to maintain your child's oral health. Working alongside your dentist, you can come up with a plan to keep your child's smile healthy. Regular visits also allow the dentist to check for and treat potential dental problems before they become more serious.

Sugar Land Dental, located in Sugar Land, TX, has modern amenities and the latest technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (281) 980-5100 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more about dental care services provided at the dental practice.