Establishing a good dental routine for your child does not take long. It will take approximately 7 days to establish a good habit and about 15 minutes a day. By taking the time and teaching your child the importance of good brushing routines early will prevent early cavities and tooth decay. Children love consistency and by adding your brushing habit into your daily routine will make it easier to establish in your child. If your child knows it is expected and needs to be done they will do it. That is a benefit that will make you, your child and your dentist happy.
1. Morning Brushes: Every morning, wake up with your children and visit the bathroom sink to wash up and brush teeth. Show your kids how to put the toothpaste on the brush and how to actually brush their teeth. Every child should spend about two to three minutes brushing their teeth. This shows your child that the first thing he or she must do in the morning and it will become a life long habit.
2. Flossing: Flossing is not always the favorite part of brushing but it is just as important as brushing. If your child does not like brushing you can try turning flossing into a game. For example, whoever finishes flossing first is the winner. Flossing is not always remembered but should be done twice a day.
3. Night Time Brushing: Be sure to add brushing time into your child’s nightime routine. It is good to have a set routine that your child knows and expects to end each night. To treat your child end the night with a bedtime story after brushing and flossing for the day..
The earlier they get in the habit, the more persistent they will be. Healthy teeth means easier dentist visits and a great start to have healthy teeth through adulthood.
Establishing dental habits in your kid early will prevent tooth decay. Stop by Trish’s website to get tools and resources to help encourage good dental routines with Tooth Fairy Letters and resources.
