Brushing Teeth: The Bane Of Childhood
When has a child ever wanted to brush their teeth? We think never. Across the nation, parents struggle with getting kids to keep their pearly whites clean. Three out of four parents agree that their child doesn’t want to brush or just can’t understand why it’s important. Why is this such a common problem, and how can parents instill the value of oral hygiene?
Why Your Kids Don’t Want to Brush Their Teeth
The honest-to-goodness truth is that kids find brushing their teeth boring. While most adults think nothing of a two-minute brushing session, young children view it as agonizing torture, keeping them from playing with their toys, watching shows, playing video games, spending time outside, or succumbing to the siren song of the internet.
Additionally, children, and even teenagers, often have trouble understanding the long-term effects of good oral health. Cavities and gum disease can seem abstract, or even sound completely made up since the consequences of poor dental hygiene don’t show themselves immediately. As a result, parents often have a hard time finding age-appropriate and engaging ways to communicate the importance of teeth brushing.
What’s a Parent to Do?
If you’re struggling with convincing your child to care for their teeth, it might be time for a new approach. Try out some of these options:
- Add a little incentive: Rewards are often a great way to instill good habits. If screens are proving resistance to brushing and flossing, consider allowing for some bonus time playing games or watching shows after each successful brushing session. If your child receives an allowance, you could make some of that money contingent on completing their required 14 brushing sessions every week.
- Make it a family activity: Children learn by emulating their parents, so brushing and flossing alongside your child can be an effective strategy. Gather around the sink, make funny faces in the mirror, and show your child that even adults brush their teeth.
- Bring the fun to the bathroom counter: Kids are more likely to do something they don’t enjoy if it’s paired with a fun activity. Most songs last at least two minutes, so why not let your child rock out to some tooth brushing tunes? You could also allow your kid to watch a short YouTube video while they brush. After all, you have probably listened to a podcast or checked social media while cleaning your teeth and completing your morning/nightly routine.
Lean on Your Dentist!
You’re not alone when it comes to getting your kid to brush. Our office works with kids of all ages, so we know a thing or two about talking “tooth” to the youth. Our specialized training affords us a lot of resources to help motivate kids and aid their understanding of oral health.
At Kewaskum Family Dentistry located in Kewaskum, WI, we’re here to help parents who struggle with instilling good dental habits in their kids. Feel free to contact our office with any questions, and while we have you, why not schedule a cleaning for your whole family? We look forward to hearing from you!
