It’s important to start your kids down the path of proper oral hygiene at a young age. It’ll ensure they maintain their oral health and that they’ll develop good dental hygiene habits that’ll stay with them for the rest of their lives.
Lead by example
One of the best things you can do as a parent is set a good example. Odds are, your kids will want to do the things they see grown-ups do, good dental habits and all. If you make a show of brushing and flossing every morning and night, your child will pick up on your habits and make them their own.
This goes for visiting the dentist as well. It’s important to put on a brave face when you go in for your routine checkup so that your children see that there’s nothing to be afraid of.
Make dental care fun
There’s an endless variety of toothbrushes and tooth pastes out there that are marketed towards children and we recommend that you take advantage of them. As annoying as that singing toothbrush might be, if it encourages your child to brush their teeth, it’s more than worthwhile to put up with it. Letting your kids go shopping with you to pick out their own toothbrushes is another good way to make dental care seem a lot less tedious and way more exciting.
Reward good behaviour
Typically, young children aren’t interested in learning about the long-term health benefits of good oral hygiene. They key is to find ways to instill the habit, so they reap those benefits in the future. Try motivating them to brush and floss with immediate gratification. Something as small as putting a sticker on a calendar for each day they brush their teeth will go a long way. Before you know it, it’ll become a habit and they won’t need the rewards anymore.
Get your children excellent dental care
Of course, another important part of helping your children form good dental habits is getting them used to going to the dentist from a young age. They should start coming in for regular examinations by their first birthday. Specializing in family dentistry, our staff at Galleria Dental Centre works to make you and your entire family feel at home in our clinic. Contact us today to schedule your next dental examination.