Tooth wisdom!
Published
One important routine that often gets overlooked during school holiday time is teeth cleaning! It’s hardly surprising that, with summer holidays, days out and new activities to explore, daily routines go out of the window. Now is the time to put things right!
Dr Smita Mehra BDS MFGDPRCS, principal dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice offers several strategies parents can use to turn this twice-daily routine into a more positive experience.
Introduce a teeth cleaning routine early
Children learn by repetition and modelling, so starting the habit early, even before milk teeth have begun to show, sets the foundation for lifelong healthy oral care habits. It also helps children become familiar with the process, reducing fear and anxiety associated with dental care.
Use a timer
A timer helps ensure that children are brushing their teeth for the recommended time, typically two minutes. Kids may be more inclined to follow a thorough brushing technique when guided by a timer and may be less distracted by things around them if focused on the seconds counting down.
Make it fun
Brushing teeth can be a boring task. Incorporating a game, or adding some fun to the routine, can encourage kids to be more enthusiastic about the process. Start by letting your child pick out a toothbrush featuring their favourite cartoon character, superhero, or animal. Play their favourite song as they brush.
There are various interactive apps, like Brush Dj or Aquafresh Brush Time, which guide children through the brushing process, featuring games, timers, and educational content.
Use a mirror to hit every spot
A mirror allows you to see inside your child's mouth from different angles, ensuring you can identify and reach all tooth surfaces, including those that are harder to see or reach directly. Children can see first-hand how brushing removes food particles and plaque, getting them more invested in the process.
Encourage a consistent routine
When brushing becomes a predictable part of their daily routine, children are more likely to stick with it. Children who learn the importance of regular brushing will continue practising it into adulthood.
Make sure an adult is supervising
It’s important children are supervised in the early years. When an adult is watching over, they can offer guidance on how to properly brush and allow them to correct any mistakes in brushing technique. Supervision also allows adults to give praise and positive reinforcement.
Lead by example
Children learn by observing the behaviour of parents and caregivers. So when it comes to brushing your teeth, they will follow your lead. That’s why it’s important to show your children how to properly look after their teeth, by brushing morning and night for approximately two minutes.
