It’s important to instill good oral habits in your child as soon as possible. Find out what you can do.
Do you notice that your child mimics the things you do? That’s because parents are typically a child’s main role model. They see what you do and try to imitate it. So, what are you doing to make sure that they practice good oral care? From the office of our Green Bay, WI, family dentists, Drs. Eric Ulve and Heidi Eggers-Ulve, find out what you should be doing to make sure your children maintain a healthy smile on their own. Talk to Green Bay Family Dental today.
Brushing and flossing according to your Bowmanville, ON, dentist
Your child is going to learn how to properly brush and floss their teeth and maintain good oral health through you. If you are someone who doesn’t floss every day or sometimes forgets to brush their teeth, then how do you expect your children to maintain good oral hygiene? Make brushing and flossing an activity that you share. Set a timer and make sure that you are both brushing for at least two minutes. Do this every morning after breakfast and at night before bed.
When it comes to flossing, things can get a bit trickier. But remember what we said about children imitating you? This can be a handy tool for teaching them to floss effectively. Show them exactly how you floss and have them watch you. Then floss their teeth to show them how it should feel. Soon enough, they will be able to take on the role themselves. If you need help teaching them, ask for some tips from your Green Bay family dentist.
Let Them Be Involved
While you will be the leader when it comes to showing them how to brush and floss you also want them to take charge sometimes, too. This means letting them go with you to pick their very own toothbrush. There are so many toothbrushes out there designed for children in mind. Let your child’s imagination run wild and let them choose a toothbrush that will have them want to brush.
Make it a routine and make it rewarding
Making a routine of your oral care regimen will also make it a habit for everyone in your family. Place a chart up on the fridge or on the bathroom door that reminds your children when to brush and floss. Every time they do so, put a sticker on the chart. By the end of the week let them turn in their stickers for a fun prize.
It’s also not a bad idea to pack a toothbrush and toothpaste in your child’s lunch so that they can start making a habit of brushing after lunch while they are at school. If you give them the tools and make it easier for them they will pick up these habits and make them their routine, as well.
Don’t forget to schedule your child’s next dental cleaning! Turn to Green Bay Family Dental in Green Bay, WI, to make sure that your child’s smile is healthy and free of decay! Schedule an appointment with your Green Bay family dentist Drs. Eric Ulve and Heidi Eggers-Ulve by calling (920) 432-2961.
