How to Cultivate Good Dental Habits in Kids

Kids love mimicking grown-up behavior. Make dental hygiene a regular family activity.

Good dental habits need to be taught to kids at an early age. This way, decay and other oral issues can be reduced or avoided. Kids aren't born with this knowledge. It is something learned through practice and time.

Here are some ways to cultivate good dental habits in little ones:

Teach them proper brushing techniques

Take time to show kids the basic techniques involved in brushing their teeth. These are skills they will use for a lifetime. Show them the gentle circular motion brushing strokes on all tooth surfaces. Kids should learn that all parts of the mouth need to be cleaned.

Brush their teeth on the onset

Initially, kids lack the motor skills to care for their teeth alone. In the first few years, it makes sense to brush their teeth for them and then start supervising them until they learn. However, one must initiate brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. This way, the child grows up knowing how important it is to keep teeth clean.

Lead by example

Kids love mimicking grown-up behavior. Make dental hygiene a regular family activity. When adults brush their teeth in the presence of kids, they pick it up easily. Explaining and keeping things positive and fun holds a child's interest.

Give them a chance to brush by themselves

Once a toddler is old enough to hold a toothbrush correctly, let them begin brushing. They can do it in front of a mirror to learn better. Supervise them as long as necessary and correct them if they make a mistake.

Get the right tools for dental hygiene

Getting kid-friendly toothpaste helps in the learning process. Using a fun kid-sized toothbrush eases the process and makes oral hygiene exciting.

Expose them to good brushing videos

Children are amazing visual learners; videos are a good way to go. There are plenty of resources available online that are as entertaining as they are educational.

Practice on DIY teeth or stuffed animals

Get a stuffed animal or doll with teeth and let the child practice on that. Please encourage them by showing them how it's done. Fake teeth work as well.

Make it fun

Create a routine and ensure the child follows it. Consider creating a fun mouth-washing song using the kid's favorite rhyme to help them learn. Rewarding them for doing it right encourages them further.

Involve a pediatric dentist

Normalizing regular visits to the dentist is key in families with children. Examinations and checkups safeguard kids' dental health and identify issues before they escalate. Working with professional dentists with the right equipment and expertise to handle dental issues is always the best way. They can advise parents and caregivers on the best practices and preventative measures to help maintain little ones' oral hygiene.

If you need a gentle, caring dental team, please call Jennifer Fineberg’s office at (623) 362-2550. We’ll give you the very best dental care we can!