My kids are very good about brushing their teeth. In fact, the last dentist appointment we went to resulted in no cavities for all 5 kids, and my 3-year-old sat perfectly for his very first exam and cleaning!
Part of the reason I believe that we have been so successful in building healthy oral hygiene habits is because there are so many cute products on the market designed to get kids excited about brushing. One line that we have used recently at our home is the Crest and Oral-B Monsters Inc. branded products. My kids freaked out (in a good way) when I put these in our "toothpaste" drawer. They love the fruity taste of the toothpaste, and the toothbrush was perfect for little mouths. I also liked that the brush lasted a full 2 months before getting frayed; kids can be hard on brushes, so this was important to me.
The Monsters Inc. products, now available at Walmart, are just one way to help ensure kids get actively involved with their own dental health. America's Toothfairy, a National Children's Oral Health Foundation, also recommends the following tips to minimize anxiety at your child's dental visits:
Part of the reason I believe that we have been so successful in building healthy oral hygiene habits is because there are so many cute products on the market designed to get kids excited about brushing. One line that we have used recently at our home is the Crest and Oral-B Monsters Inc. branded products. My kids freaked out (in a good way) when I put these in our "toothpaste" drawer. They love the fruity taste of the toothpaste, and the toothbrush was perfect for little mouths. I also liked that the brush lasted a full 2 months before getting frayed; kids can be hard on brushes, so this was important to me.
The Monsters Inc. products, now available at Walmart, are just one way to help ensure kids get actively involved with their own dental health. America's Toothfairy, a National Children's Oral Health Foundation, also recommends the following tips to minimize anxiety at your child's dental visits:
- Visit the dentist with your child prior to their first appointment. Help your child understand what to expect on their visit by taking a tour of the practice and asking the dental assistant or dental hygienist to explain what will be done and demonstrate how each instrument will be used. Not only will this help ease your child’s fears, but it also creates a wonderful learning opportunity!
- For slightly order children, bring them along to observe your routine dental cleaning and exam. This will allow them to ask questions, see how each instrument will be used, eliminate potential fears by observing your experience and help them understand the importance of practicing good oral health behaviors. (Contact your dental office prior to your appointment to advise them that your child will be with you.)
- Regular dental visits will enable your child to develop a sense of familiarity and comfort with the dental team and practice as well provide vital preventive care necessary for a healthy smile. Reinforcing concepts such as daily brushing and flossing, by posting a calendar and rewarding your child a gold star or sticker for every day of excellent oral care. Help get your child excited about their next dental visit by bringing the calendar with you to show the dentist.
- Allow your child to bring their favorite toy or blanket with them on their dental visit to give them an added sense of security and comfort.
- Reading can have a soothing and calming effect on your child. Bring their favorite book to read to them during their dental appointment.
How old were your kids when they first went to the dentist? Do you have any "tricks" to get them excited about going?
*Samples received. Opinions are 100% my own.
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