Empower Kids to Care About Teeth
Portland, OR
 Is it a struggle to brush your child’s teeth on a daily basis? Do they frequently complain about brushing and flossing and routine dental care? Positive experiences both at home and at the pediatric dentist are key factors in your child’s outlook on dental care. Our team can provide helpful guidance on empowering your child to care about their teeth.
While it is important for you as a parent to care about your child’s dental health, it is equally important for them to care about their teeth. If you reinforce good dental hygiene practices with your child, it will encourage them to make better decisions and help them develop good habits. Early infant oral care is important. Our team, specializing in dentistry for kids, at Great Grins for KIDS - Portland can help you empower your child to care about their teeth.
Why Is it Important to Teach Kids About Dental Care?
It is important to teach your child about proper dental care because the habits they develop as children will influence them for the rest of their lives. Developing good habits early in their life and having positive interactions at a high-quality pediatric office such as ours is key to a bright smile that will last a lifetime. Early treatment and regular cleanings and exams will prevent dental problems later on. As your child grows, it is important for them to take personal responsibility for their dental hygiene.
Your child will also emulate your dental habits. If you routinely brush and floss your teeth, they will observe this behavior and be encouraged to do the same. These habits can help prevent them from suffering from future problems, such as tooth decay. Our team will also encourage these behaviors during routine visits, beginning with the first visit, where they may still be teething and only have baby teeth, but your influence is most important.
How Do I Encourage My Child to Care About Their Teeth?
There are many ways to empower your child. One of the most common and effective ways is to guide them during minor decision-making processes, while still allowing them to provide input. Allowing your child to make minor decisions will provide positive reinforcement in regard to good dental hygiene and encourage them to care about their teeth.
A simple way of doing this is to allow your child to pick out their own toothbrush. The dental aisle of most stores is usually flooded with a variety of children’s toothbrush options. By allowing your child to pick a toothbrush that appeals to them, you are empowering them and encouraging them to care about caring for their teeth. Whether it be a toothbrush in their favorite color or from a TV show they like, they will enjoy the process and begin to look at teeth brushing as a positive experience.
Another important step to empowering your child is brushing with them. If your child sees you brushing your teeth every night before bed, they will likely enjoy brushing their teeth with you. You can also play a song during brushing that will help your child enjoy the two minutes of brushing. There are many such songs available.
Our professionals at Great Grins for KIDS - Portland will work with you on the journey of empowering your child to care about their teeth. We are focused on providing your child with a lifetime of smiles and good health. Contact us at today and book your appointment.
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