Morning and night-time routines can be a struggle for some kids, making the whole thing very stressful. Unfortunately, as washing and hygiene are essential parts of everyday life, there is no avoiding them. So how do you make toothbrushing less stressful?
Discover How You Can Make Your Child’s Toothbrushing Less Stressful
While no magic tricks exist, some tried, and accurate tips can help. Here are a few tips to help make cleaning their teeth less of a battle for you and your children.
Musical Toothbrushes
Yes, this is a real thing! It is recommended that you brush your teeth for 2 minutes. This is fine when you’re an adult, but it can seem like forever for your little ones. You can make these 2 minutes fly by with a musical toothbrush.
These toothbrushes play a song for two minutes. This entertains your kids and ensures they brush at the right time. There are so many options available to choose from. From Frozen to Star Wars, you will find one that makes toothbrushing a little more exciting!
Explaining the Importance
For some children, explaining the importance of the task can help them understand why they must do it. Luckily, you can find plenty of resources to help with this, from videos to storybooks featuring their favorite characters. There are plenty of age-appropriate options that you can read together. These help your child understand why hygiene and looking after themselves are essential.
Furthermore, encouraging them to develop healthy toothbrushing habits will help them stick and be carried on later. Developing these good habits at a young age will help them maintain them throughout their lives. It will keep their teeth healthier for longer.
Joining In
If possible, making toothbrushing a family event can help reduce any nerves around it. Brushing your teeth with your child can show them that it’s nothing to be scared of and that everyone has to do it! Whether morning or night, a solid routine can help prepare your child for the day ahead or help them wind down in the evening.
Joining them while they brush their teeth allows you to spend more time with them; it turns toothbrushing from an intimidating chore into a more enjoyable family activity.
Toothpaste Taste
Another reason kids may be hesitant to brush their teeth is toothpaste. It doesn’t always taste good to them. Plus, it can be a bit of a weird thing to put in their mouths! Adult toothpaste is usually minty. This can be intense and unpleasant for children and often contains too much fluoride.
Several alternatives are still healthy and beneficial for the teeth but don’t have a minty taste. One typical example is strawberry-flavored toothpaste, which is specially formulated for children.
Have the Proper Tooth Brush for Their Needs
For children with special needs such as autism, the feel of the brush can be too much. Even so, brushing your teeth is essential to overall health. One way to help your child is by getting a brush that reduces tooth brushing time while getting teeth clean.
Toothbrushes like the DenTrust have a wrap-around design. This quickly and easily remove more plaque, even in the hardest-to-reach areas. Even as an adult, I use these brushes to help me care for my mouth more.
This cosmetic dentist Boynton Beach also recommends teaching your child the proper brushing technique – hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and brush in small strokes.
Make Toothbrushing Less Stressful
These essential tips to make toothbrushing less stressful should help make these daily routines much more enjoyable and less of a chore. Of course, the most important task is visiting your dentist. Regular visits to your dentist will also help pick up on any issues. It allows you and your child to get expert advice on dental issues or problems.