Dental hygiene can be a chore for kids, but it doesn't have to be. With a little creativity and effort, parents can make tooth brushing and flossing a fun experience for their little ones. This will not only help them avoid cavities but will also instill good habits that will last a lifetime. Here's what you can do to make at-home oral care more entertaining.

How to Make Dental Hygiene Fun for Children

1. Give Them Control

Let your kids choose their own toothbrushes and toothpaste. Children love feeling like they have control, and this small act will go a long way in making them excited about brushing their teeth. Take them with you the next time you head to the store so that they can pick out these items on their own.

2. Share the Experience

Turning dental hygiene into a bonding experience can make it something your little ones look forward to. For instance, you can brush your teeth together as a family or even let them help you with your own dental routine. This will show them that brushing and flossing is something everyone does and that it can be enjoyable. Plus, it's a great way to spend some quality time together.

3. Use Rewards

While bribery isn't always the best method, you can reward them periodically for brushing and flossing without making a fuss. Let them choose a new toy or activity if they brush their teeth for a week straight. This will help them associate oral care with something positive instead of something that they have to do.

4. Focus on Learning

As they're brushing, teach them about the importance of taking care of their teeth, how to do it properly, and why they want to avoid cavities. Hopefully, this will make them more motivated to take on the tasks without prompting from you. You can even turn it into a science experiment by letting them test out different toothpastes or brushes to see which one they like the best.

5. Use Technology

There are a ton of great apps and games available that can make dental hygiene more fun for kids. For instance, there are apps that track their brushing progress and give them rewards for a job well done. Additionally, many toothbrush companies have developed interactive tools that make the experience more fun for children. You can even listen to music to time brushing.

For more ways to help your children avoid cavities and maintain good oral health, turn to John M. Schulte, DMD. This office is located in Ft. Mitchell, KY, and has been serving families throughout northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati, OH, for more than 40 years. The staff takes a caring, gentle approach that keeps patients of all ages comfortable. They offer everything from routine teeth cleaning to extractions, root canals, and cosmetic procedures to help you maintain a brilliant and confident smile. Call (859) 331-0763 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website to learn more.