Start with a visit to your dentist. Here, a dental professional will teach your child the proper way to brush, using kid-friendly words. Let your child pick out her own toothbrush and toothpaste. There are many colorful child-sized toothbrushes on the market, as well as toothpastes in flavors that appeal to kids. Just make sure that the toothbrush has soft or very soft, rounded bristles so they don’t damage your child’s gums or tooth enamel. Be sure your child uses only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on her brush. Kids tend to swallow toothpaste, and it’s important that they not get too much fluoride. If your child doesn’t like toothpaste, don’t sweat it! You don’t want dental hygiene sessions to turn into a battle. Brush your pet’s teeth, and let your child help – or at least watch. Not only does this reinforce the idea that clean teeth are important, it’s also good for your pet. Praise their brushing efforts and the results they’re producing. And finally, because children learn by example, be sure your child sees you brushing and flossing your own teeth every single day. It’s good for them, and good for you!
