Tooth Brushing Troubles
Avoid Toddler and Preschooler Toothbrush Tantrums
Unfortunately, young children often blatantly refuse to let a parent brush their teeth. Tooth brushing power struggles can set off a tantrum in young children.
Toddlers and preschoolers are generally unable to toothbrush adequately. If left to do the job on their own, most will do a poor job, at best. It is crucial for a parent to take over and be sure that teeth are cleaned daily. However, brushing can rapidly turn into a power struggle between the parent and the child. Here are some tips to make tooth brushing less troublesome.
Buy a Fun Toothbrush
Many children will willingly open their mouths for tooth brushing if they have a favorite character toothbrush. Electric or spin toothbrushes are popular with children. Be sure the brush is the correct size for a child’s small mouth. Change the toothbrush frequently to keep the child interested in dental hygiene.
Have a Tooth Brushing Routine
Brush teeth twice a day. It is crucial that teeth be cleaned every evening before bed. Leaving bits of food on the teeth overnight can lead to cavities. If brushing is part of the regular bedtime routine, children will be more likely to go along with it each night. Morning brushing is important as well, but if your child fights this part of the routine, this is the one to skip.
Use a Toothbrush for Teething
When a child is still young and teething, a toothbrush makes a great teething toy. Let an older baby or young toddler chew on the bristles. This will help clean the existing teeth and is a good substitute for parent-led tooth brushing.
Model Good Brushing Habits
Let your child see you brush your teeth. Many children like to brush alongside their parents. Get down on the child’s level and show him specifically which teeth you are cleaning. Ask him to copy you.
Play Tooth Brushing Games
Switch roles and let your child brush your teeth while you brush his. Sing a tooth brushing song. Have your child race and see if he can finish cleaning his teeth before you finish the song. Or, challenge him to brush for longer than the song. Change the game often to keep your child interested.
Find the Right Toothpaste
Many young children do not like the taste or texture of toothpaste. Buy a flavor formulated for children, but try to avoid toothpastes filled with artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners. To help with texture issues, use a small dot of toothpaste on the brush. If the child refuses toothpaste, let him brush with water. The brushing action is the most important step to getting teeth clean. Forgoing toothpaste won’t make too much difference, according to Dr. David Jones of Dentistry's Leading Edge, a website about dentistry.
For more ideas to get a toddler into the tooth brushing habit read Brushing Basics: Practicing Healthy Habits With Your Toddler by Tanya Campbell.
