How to Get Your Children to Brush Their Teeth

Regular tooth brushing will help children fight cavities.

Getting children to take steps to protect their dental health will reduce future expenses and pain. Make sure the children clean their teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and limit their consumption of sugary snacks. In additional, schedule regular visits with your dentist, and encourage children to consume foods high in calcium, such as low-fat milk. Provide incentives as you instill a regular brushing routine.

Things You'll Need

• Reward chart
• Stickers
• Healthy snacks

Instructions

1. Develop a consistent schedule for your kids to brush their teeth each day. Kids thrive on consistency and repetition. They should brush their teeth before breakfast and before bedtime. Have them brush their teeth when you are not in a hurry and can show them the proper technique.

2. Don't place more than a pea-sized portion of toothpaste on the brush. Too much toothpaste can create a lot of foam and lead to brushing difficulties. Make sure the toothpaste has a mild taste; some toothpastes contain ingredients that children find harsh.

3. Put up a reward chart in the bathroom for the children to see. After they brush their teeth each time during the day, add a sticker to show them their progress. After the week's chart is full, provide a treat such as a healthy snack or other reward to encourage them.

4. Educate your children on the importance of keeping healthy teeth and gums. Explain to them the consequences of not brushing on a regular basis -- such as cavities and multiple visits to see the dentist -- without using scare tactics.

5. Go over the teeth of young children yourself after they have brushed. Clean difficult-to-reach areas such as the back molars. Brushing your teeth while your child brushes usually helps her learn by example and shows her that everyone has to brush, not just children.

Tips & Warnings

• If your child is upset, wait until he calms down before teeth brushing.

• Buying your child a favorite character or musical toothbrush can also help children who don't like brushing.

• Make sure you are using children's toothpaste.

• Floss children's teeth before they go to bed.

References

• Save Your Smile: Discover How to Get Your Child to Brush

Resources

• Kids Health: Keep Your Child's Teeth Healthy