Kids Won’t Brush Their Teeth? Here Are some Tips from our Worcester dental clinic !

1. Make brushing fun for the young kids. Make up a song or dance; you can even sing the Happy Birthday song twice, and it will be the length of 2 minutes, which is how long you want to brush your teeth for.
2. Brush your teeth with them. Smaller children often like to mimic what their parents are doing; seeing you brush your teeth will encourage them to do the same. 
3. Setting a routine is also very important. Make sure to have them do it every morning and night so that it becomes a natural habit to do so.
4. Make sure to teach them the importance of brushing their teeth and what could happen if they do not. Show pictures and videos; it's easier for a child to understand when you can show them what you are explaining to them.
5. Keeping up with dental visits, be sure to have your child see their dentist every 6 months; that will reinforce good oral hygiene. 
6. Make sure to make it a positive, happy thing to do with the kids; if it feels like a chore, they are less likely to be enthusiastic to do it.
7. Have the child pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste, as making them pick their own toothbrush and toothpaste will make them more eager to brush their teeth. 

Here at Dr. Patel's office in Worcester, we are seeing children as young as 1 year old. Please call us at 508-756-5141 to schedule your child's next visit!

Author

Oniesha M Registered Dental Assistant