Adopting a healthy oral hygiene routine [1] is important at any age but may be a bit more so during a child's younger years. These formative years are the ones that really set the stage and build the foundation for a healthy lifestyle [2] for years to come. However, we also know that sometimes teaching children to brush their teeth can be a little tricky, a bit messy, and a tad frustrating. It involves great dedication, reassurance, and support (not to mention a bunch of time). Because of this, we've gathered five tips that will help get your child brushing their teeth (without a huge battle) in no time!
Get the Whole Household Involved
When your child is brushing, go right in there with them and be a brushing role model. If your child sees you brushing your teeth alongside them, they'll have a great example of why they should stick with this healthy habit.
Have Great-Tasting Toothpaste on Hand
Some children may be thrown off by the taste of traditional mint toothpaste. Thankfully, brands such as Hello [4] have created toothpastes featuring some of children's favorites flavors. Hello's toddler and children's pastes come in a number of delicious options, including watermelon, bubblegum, raspberry, and apple.
Make Brushing Fun
According to the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth twice a day [5], two minutes each time. It's important to make these four minutes fun, so don't just stand there and watch. Instead, a good idea is to set a timer, such as Disney's Magic Timer by Oral B App [6], dance around, and get to brushing. If brushing is made to be a fun activity, your child may find more of an incentive to stick to it.
Allow Your Child to Pick Out Their Own Toothbrush
There are so many different character toothbrushes available today that can help keep your child motivated and excited to brush, including these Avengers [7] ones from Oral-B ($3). By allowing your child to pick out their own toothbrush, either via online or in-store, you're further involving them in the oral hygiene experience.
Make It a Habit
Make sure when you're teaching your child how to brush, you stick to a routine [8], brushing once in the morning and once at night before bed. Over time, this will be a built-in part of your child's everyday life, becoming a healthy, easy-to-remember habit.