Make it a Family Affair: How to Instill Good Dental Health Habits in Your Kids
As a parent, there are a lot of things you must teach your children. You are in charge of teaching them how to be a good person, how to make friends, how to tie their shoes – the list goes on! One thing that’s very important is teaching them to take care of their teeth. Remember that good home oral care from a young age can help your kids avoid cavities and being a lifelong habit of great oral health. Here are some ideas from California Dental Group on how you can get your kids started on the right foot.
Remember how kids learn best
Kids learn best visually. As a result, you can tell them what you want them to do over and over again, but the best way to help it really sink in is to show them. Play a game by brushing your teeth while next to your child. They’ll mimic you and learn the routine themselves.
You could also use books that include kid-friendly descriptions of the benefits of great oral hygiene. There are also tons of apps out there for tablets and / or smartphones that demonstrate to kids exactly how and why they should be brushing their teeth.
Sing that song two minutes long
It’s very common for people to overestimate how long they’re brushing their teeth. For the best results, you should be brushing for a full two minutes each time you brush your teeth. This will get rid of all that bacteria and nasty buildup. If you have trouble making it that long, consider singing a song. Pick a nursery rhyme that your kids like or make up your own song. It doesn’t matter, as long as the song is two minutes long!
Give them positive reinforcement
Most any psychologist can tell you that positively reinforcing children is one of the best ways to encourage their good behavior. After all, kids just want approval and to be loved. You may do something like starting a sticker chart, or allow them to win prizes if they follow good oral health habits for a certain period of time.
Get them used to the dentist from an early age
The fear of dentists often comes from people waiting too long to start visiting the dentist, or from people who have significant oral health issues who avoid getting them fixed. The best way you can help your kids not have a fear of the dentist is to bring them in for regular cleanings and exams.
Are you looking for a dentist that will handle your dental needs for the entire family? If so, you’ll be glad you found California Dental Group. We are an experienced, compassionate, and friendly dental group. We look forward to meeting you and your family – just give us a call at (800) 407-0161.
