How to Get Kids Excited About Dental Health
Good oral health is essential for children’s overall development – in fact, children should begin going to the dentist as early as six months old or when they get their first tooth!
Cavities (or tooth decay) are one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood, yet they are largely preventable. Poor oral hygiene can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even problems with speech development. Studies also show a link between oral health and conditions such as heart disease and diabetes later in life.
By teaching children the importance of proper dental care from an early age, parents can help them avoid future health issues. Regular dental visits, proper brushing, and a tooth-friendly diet all contribute to a bright, healthy smile.
With February ushering us into National Children’s Dental Health Month, it’s the perfect time to brush up on ways to help the kids in your life develop good oral health habits early. You can start the conversation with your children by downloading and printing our dental health coloring and activity book, “Elliot Goes to the Dentist.” It’s a free resource that will help bring levity to all things related to oral health.
Establishing a strong foundation in dental care can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other health issues while promoting overall well-being. However, getting children excited about brushing and flossing can be a challenge for many parents and caregivers.
Fun Ways to Get Kids Excited About Dental Health
Making dental care an enjoyable experience helps children establish positive associations with oral hygiene. Here are some creative strategies to encourage joy around brushing, flossing, and dental visits.
1. Let Kids Choose their Dental Supplies
Giving children the freedom to select their toothbrush and toothpaste can make a big difference in their enthusiasm. Many brands offer toothbrushes with fun colors, characters, and even light-up or musical features. Flavored toothpaste options, such as bubblegum or fruit, can also make brushing more enjoyable. Experienced parents know that the wrong flavor can cause quite the bedtime ruckus!
2. Make Brushing a Family Activity
Children often mimic what they see their parents do. Brushing and flossing together as a family reinforces good habits and makes the routine feel less like a chore. Play or hum a favorite song while brushing to make it more fun and ensure they brush for the recommended two minutes.
3. Use a Reward System
A simple reward system can be an effective way to encourage consistency. Create a sticker chart where kids can earn a sticker each time they brush and floss. After a week of consistent brushing, reward them with a fun activity or a small non-sugary treat.
4. Tell Stories or Watch Videos About Dental Health
Children respond well to storytelling, so incorporating fun dental health stories can make the topic more engaging. Read books that highlight the importance of brushing and flossing or watch kid-friendly videos that show animated characters taking care of their teeth. This helps kids understand the significance of oral hygiene in a relatable way. You can even watch PRASAD’s puppet smiley get his teeth brushed by one of our dental professionals.
5. Turn Brushing into a Game
Turning brushing and flossing into a game can make it more appealing. Apps and interactive tools like the “Disney Magic Timer ” or “Brush DJ ” help children stay engaged by playing music or featuring beloved characters. Some apps even provide virtual rewards for completing brushing sessions.
6. Teach through Hands-On Activities
Hands-on activities, such as using disclosing tablets that temporarily stain plaque areas, can visually show kids where they need to improve their brushing technique.
7. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups as a Positive Experience
Taking children for regular dental checkups, at least twice a year, is crucial for maintaining their oral health. However, some kids may fear the dentist. To ease anxiety, talk positively about dental visits and choose a pediatric dentist with a child-friendly environment. After appointments, reward them with praise or a fun activity.
The Role of Parents in Children’s Dental Health
Parents play an important role in helping children learn healthy oral hygiene habits. Here’s how to support their journey:
- • Be a role model: Show children that you prioritize your dental health by maintaining your own oral care routine.
- • Provide guidance: Help younger children brush and floss properly until they can do it independently.
- • Monitor diet: Keep an eye on their sugar intake and provide nutritious snacks that promote oral health.
- • Encourage positive reinforcement: Praise kids for taking care of their teeth and make dental hygiene a rewarding experience.
National Children’s Dental Health Month is a great opportunity to instill good oral hygiene habits in kids that will last a lifetime. By making dental care fun and engaging, parents can help children look forward to brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist. Encouraging these habits early on leads to a healthier smile and overall well-being.
Parents, caregivers, and educators can take part in National Children’s Dental Health Month by sharing tips, engaging in fun activities, and educating children about the importance of oral hygiene. Together, we can ensure a future filled with healthy smiles!
You can also make a difference this month by supporting PRASAD Children’s Dental Health Program. For 27 years, we have been improving the dental health of children by providing comprehensive, high-quality dental services through education, prevention, detection, and treatment. We treat low-income families who do not have access to dental services, so a donation of any amount is life-changing to the children we serve.
