New year, new challenges - regardless of your "improve oral health" resolution, teaching your child to brush may still come as a struggle. Often times, children view brushing their teeth as another chore - specifically one they'd like to avoid whenever possible. Change their perceptions this year by following some of these tips and make brushing family fun:
- There's an App for That! - Of course there is! Apps like Brush DJ is a free app that will play random music from your phone or iPad for 2 minutes in order to keep your child brushing longer. This app also reminds you about dental checkups and when you should replace your toothbrush!
- Be Connected - The Beam Brush is the world's first smart toothbrush! This manual brush monitors oral hygiene habits and reports them to a smartphone app. One smart phone can hold multiple Beam Brush data - have the whole family compete to be the best brusher! You have the option of watching the light 'beam' turn off after 2 minutes or listening to music while you brush for the allotted time. Create goals to form new habits and even earn rewards for your progress! Great way to ensure kids are building and maintaining good oral care habits.
- Offer Variety - Try buying a flavored floss in berry, winter-mint, or even cupcake flavors! An easy and tasty way to encourage your little one to floss. Floss picks in your child's favorite color, cartoon, or animal is much more exciting to them as well.
- Use Incentives - Create rewards to help your child along the way. If your child remembers to brush their teeth without having to be reminded, give a point or sticker. Once enough points or stickers are accumulated, allow your child to trade them in for a small prize. Keep a daily chart in the bathroom to keep a running record.
Your child may not understand the importance of a dental routine, but they do understand fun! Try some of these tips with your kids and let us know if they've helped! Share any other tips and tricks of your own on our Facebook page.
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