The American Dental Association recommends that parents start brushing their children’s teeth as soon as that first pearly white tooth emerges. Parents are encouraged to continue supervising the tooth brushing until children are around 8-9 years old. Unfortunately, trying to get children to brush their teeth isn’t always easy. Getting your kids excited about dental hygiene is one of the ways you can help reduce the risk of tooth decay and establish healthy habits for life.

Our team at Arya Dental in Fullerton, California, provides dental care for every member of your family from your littlest ones to your senior members. We know that the best dental hygiene routines start at home. Below, we share tips to get your kids excited about dental hygiene.

1. Make oral hygiene a family priority

One of the best things you can do to establish solid oral care habits in your children is to model the habits you want to see. When your children see you prioritize oral care, they are more likely to pick up those habits, too. Let your child know that you brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash.

2. Make it fun

You should brush your teeth for a full two minutes, but it can be hard for children to judge how long two minutes is. You can teach your child how long to brush by playing a fun, upbeat song. Simply tell your child to brush until the song ends. This isn’t just fun, but it teaches your child that good brushing takes time.

3. Let your child pick out a new toothbrush

Time for a new toothbrush? Let your child pick out one for themselves. Your child may be ready for a new toothbrush:

• Every three to four months
• If the brush shows signs of wear, such as frayed bristles
• If your child just recovered from an illness (to prevent contamination) 

Toddler and child-size toothbrushes are available in a wide variety of colors, and some even feature characters from popular TV shows. 

4. Let your child select his or her toothpaste

Though you may be keen on minty toothpaste, not all kids love the flavor. Thankfully, there are plenty of non-minty toothpastes that feature the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. This, too, can add some excitement to your child’s oral care routine.

5. Use multimedia tools

Is your child learning to brush his or her teeth? There are plenty of online videos featuring your child’s favorite TV characters as they talk about the importance of oral care. These tools can be a fun way for your child to learn about:

• How to brush his or her teeth
• What cavities are
• How to prevent cavities
• How to care for your mouth after an extraction, or getting a tooth pulled
• What to expect at the dentist’s office
• Why oral hygiene matters

In addition to videos, you can also head to the library and find books that zero in on dental hygiene. 

In addition to at-home oral care, routine dental cleanings are an important part of your oral care. To schedule an appointment for you or your child, call our office at 714-646-9546. You can also schedule an online appointment.