One of the most frustrating things that parents have to deal with is kids that don’t want to brush their teeth. Kids might not be as keen about the virtues of good dental health as you are, and things can get especially hairy at the end of the day when they’re tired and ready to fall into bed. Luckily, we love helping children keep their teeth clean and smiles beautiful, so we’ve come up with some helpful hints for making teeth brushing time easier for everyone!
Children Themed Toothbrushes & Toothpastes
There are lots of toothbrushes that you can buy at your local drug store or supermarket that feature popular kids TV show characters. Whether your son or daughter is into Transformers, Dora the Explorer, Thomas the Tank Engine or one of Marvel’s superheroes, there are many toothbrushes available that will help bring an element of fun to teeth brushing time.
There are also kid friendly toothpastes that can help make teeth brushing time a little more fun. You won’t find as wide a variety of TV show characters, but if your child doesn’t like the overpowering mint that some adult toothpastes have you will be able to find some kid friendly toothpaste flavours like strawberry, watermelon and bubble gum. As your child gets a little older you can graduate them to minty kid’s toothpaste, which isn’t as strong as the adult versions, and then when they’re a little bit older again they’ll be ready for adult toothpaste.
Powered Toothbrushes
Powered toothbrushes can add an element of fun to teeth brushing because some kids like the feeling of the vibrations in their mouths as the toothbrush whirs away. Be careful if you’re thinking about getting your little tyke a powered toothbrush because really young children might get scared by the sound that it makes and it might feel weird in their little mouth!
If you do think a powered toothbrush might help your children with brushing their teeth then you could buy a disposable powered toothbrush or a more expensive electric toothbrush. A disposal toothbrush might cost you between $5-8 and once the batteries die then you throw it away and get a new one. A more expensive electric toothbrush can be recharged and has replaceable heads might cost you between $150-250.
Teeth Brushing Apps
If your kids love your smartphone or tablet (and which kid doesn’t?) then there are a few apps that you can download to help them brush their teeth. For the most part, the main features of these apps are a timer that your child can use to make sure they’re spending enough time brushing their teeth, but depending on the app there are hints and tips for proper dental care, you can set reminders for replacing your new toothbrush or visiting your dentist, or have your child brush their teeth to their favourite song or music video.
Getting your children to brush their teeth properly can be a challenge, but you can make teeth brushing more fun by getting them toothbrushes with their favourite characters or toothpaste flavours they will like. You can also get older children a powered toothbrush, and use your phone or tablet to entertain them while they brush.
And of course, make regular visits to your family dentist a part of your children’s oral health plan. Orion Dental specializes in children’s dentistry, and with offices conveniently located in Milton and Scarborough, we’re never too far away! Call us today to book an appointment for you and your family!
