FAMILY HEALTH
7 Tips for Reluctant Brushers
Does your child hate brushing their teeth? Check out these 7 tips from Dental Depot to make brushing easier on them (and you!). Cut this out and place on the bathroom mirror for a handy reminder!
Consider why — and ask them what they don’t like about brushing during a calm moment. Maybe their current toothbrush hurts their mouth or they don’t like the taste of their toothpaste. Perhaps they are sensitive to new textures or they just don’t like to stand still. Understanding why brushing is bothersome can increase empathy and help you choose the best ways to encourage them.
Incorporate movement. Let them squeeze a fidget ball, pet their favorite stuffed animal or march in place or down the hall and back while brushing.
Give choices. Have a few toothbrushes for your child to choose from and let them pick which toothbrush to use. This helps them feel more in control of the situation.
Try a reward system. Maybe your child receives a note from the tooth fairy, a sticker or another reward every time they brush. Use a sticker chart; once your child has accumulated a certain number, they get a bigger reward, such as a trip to the park.
Set a timer or sing a song to get them to work at it longer.
Make up a fun story, for instance, about getting the “sugar monsters” off their teeth. “Oops, the sugar monster just ran across your tongue, let’s get it!”
Make it fun! Educate your child about brushing their teeth with fun books and videos. For example, Dental Depot’s Smiley O’Riley program educates kids about good oral hygiene habits. This educational, entertaining video presentation for ages PreK through 5th grade features Smiley O’Riley and his friends the Sugar Free Allstars and is perfect for teachers and parents alike. Watch here: bit.ly/SmileyORiley.
With a bit of modification and creativity, you and your children might actually look forward to the teeth brushing routine! Find more information at dentaldepot.net.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2023 11
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