Wouldn’t it be nice if your child cared about their teeth as much as you did? Parents across the country focus on daily oral hygiene, but that doesn’t mean their children understand the dangers of tooth decay or early onset gingivitis. Here are three great ways to help kids care more about their teeth, and why your family dentist will appreciate the efforts. 

Tips to Help Kids Care About Their Teeth

1. Read to Your Kids

Kids love books, especially when they help explain things they might have anxiety about. To make it easier for your children to understand the importance of regular dental care, check out a few books about dentistry and brushing at your local library, and read them together as a family. Reading paves the way for helpful discussions between parents and children, soothing fears, and making the process easy to understand. 

2. Talk About Tooth Decay 

If your children are older, talk with them candidly about the dangers of tooth decay, and consider showing them pictures of cavities. Talk with them about your own experiences with decay, and how it is easier to prevent problems altogether. Be careful not to show kids overly graphic images of tooth decay or oral surgeries, since inappropriate images could make your teen nervous about upcoming dental appointments. 

3. Ask Your Dentist for Help

It always helps to have other people reinforce the things you have taught at home, so ask your family dentist to talk with your kids about their oral health. If your kids are having a hard time brushing, flossing, or rinsing, ask your dentist to give them a few pointers. 

Although it can seem difficult to light a child’s fire to care for their teeth, the fact of the matter is that your due diligence will pay off in the end. If you need ideas to help your little one focus on oral care, visit Susan Kleier, DMD, in Lexington, KY. With more than 30 years’ worth of experience and a passion for helping patients of all ages, this family dentist can help you and your kids enjoy healthier smiles. Learn more by visiting her website or giving her office a call at (859) 225-1188.