Share on FacebookYou know it’s important for your child’s health. As a parent, you want to do the right thing. When it comes to regular tooth brushing, though, it can be a struggle just to get your child to brush his teeth.
Some parents, unfortunately, give in and allow their children to neglect good oral hygiene. Don’t make that mistake! Children should be taught very early how to brush. It not only keeps their mouth free of decay and infection, but creates a healthy habit to last a lifetime.
Here are some tips that may help calm the struggle:
-  As toddler, allow your son to “chew” on a toddler toothbrush. Supervise your child closely, but allow him to simply have the toothbrush (without toothpaste) in his mouth.
- Let your child pick his toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Use one the flavored children’s toothpastes.
- Reserve brushing for the same time each time (with other morning or bedtimes routines) so it becomes expected.
- Purchase a flashing light toothbrush. There is one made by Firefly available at Walmart, Meijer, etc. Turn off the bathroom lights while brushing his teeth and have some fun with it.
- Use words like “tickle”, “sparkle” or “shiny”.
- Do not scare your child with the threat of getting “shots” at the dentist. In fact, make going to see your family dentist (a taking a chair ride next time you go to the dentist) a reward.
And perhaps most important, set a good example. Your daily brushing will do more to develop good habits than anything else.