4 Ways to Encourage Good Dental Hygiene in Toddlers

Some researchers suggest that as much as 60 percent of children have experienced some form of tooth decay by the time they are five years old. The fact is, the time nestled between infancy and post-toddler can be an eventual period in a child’s life. And, getting a rambunctious toddler on board with brushing can be tough.

First, be sure your child has a good pediatric dentist in Centerville. Then consider these ideas to help make brushing less problematic for a toddler.

1. Make Brushing Fun

Brushing may start out intriguing, but that initial curiosity about learning a new skill can quickly fade. Your goal is to keep brushing as fun as possible. This may mean making a game out of those two minutes of brushing, playing a favorite song every morning and night during brushing time, or even creating a sticker chart.

2. Lead By Example

Toddlers do model after the adults in their life. If you’re brushing every day, your toddler may naturally want to follow suit. Make a point to invite your little one into the bathroom with you when it’s time for you to brush and floss yourself.

3. Involve Favorite Characters

Many recognizable characters have videos out there to watch or books to read about brushing your teeth. These can be super helpful if your toddler is struggling. For example, check out the Brushy Brushy Song from Elmo.

4. Use the Right Products

Kid-friendly products are a must if you want a toddler to get interested in brushing and flossing. Thankfully, you have a ton of ADA-approved products that are perfect for the purpose, such as:

• Toothbrushes that play a tune
• Fun-shaped flossers
• Toothpaste that sparkles, changes colors or offers fun flavors
• Mouthwash that makes tooth stains a funky color before brushing them away

Work with a Pediatric Dentist in Centerville, OH

Toddlerhood can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a stressful time for your youngster’s oral health. If you are struggling to get your child to brush their teeth, be sure you work with a pediatric dentist in Centerville, OH to take other measures. Reach out to us at Bellbrook Family Dentistry to schedule your toddler’s appointment today.