When Brushing Is A Battle: Tips For Tampa Parents

Published on December 20, 2019 by Kernagis Dental Excellence

Some Tampa parents wrongly believe that their child’s primary teeth are somehow less important than their secondary teeth. The misconception goes like this: “They’re going to fall out, right? We’ll get serious about oral hygiene when their big teeth come in.”

Your child’s primary teeth, or baby teeth, are just as important to their health, speech development, and confidence as their permanent teeth.

The twenty primary teeth set the stage for a beautiful smile. Taking care of these teeth is vital!

When Brushing Is A Battle

A child’s dislike is understandable. Sometimes parents want to give up the struggle until their child is older.

We plead with you to keep trying. Here are a few suggestions for toothbrushing tantrums.

Go Easy On The Toothpaste

If the toothpaste is the issue, brush with a smaller amount or even without it at first. The goal is to remove food particles that will lead to plaque and bacteria, eventually causing decay. Toothpaste is not necessary for removing food particles. Fluoride is important, however. If you are concerned that your child isn’t getting enough, talk to Richard Kernagis about fluoride supplements.

Let Your Child Pick Their Toothbrush

Take your youngster to the store and have him or her select a new, soft-bristled toothbrush. Maybe buy two, so he or she has some control in picking which one to use each time Let your child do the brushing first, then inspect and brush the areas that might have been bypassed.

Make Brushing Family Fun

Brush together as a family. Let your son or daughter know that everyone needs to brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day. Make it fun.

Baby Steps At First

To develop the habit, keep the time short and slowly increase the sessions. Brush heads are hard with bristles that poke. Toothpaste may seem “hot” to some little ones. Teaching your child that brushing is non-negotiable is the essential first step. After it has become part of the routine, add time by singing songs or brushing your teeth at the same time. Some Florida parents have had success with setting a timer.

Remember The Reinforcement

Compliment your child on their outstanding effort in taking care of themselves. Be sure to keep a positive attitude. Let your child know that you love their pleasing smile and want it to always be shiny white. Positive reinforcement and establishing a routine are important parts of childhood dental brushing. We want children to be devoted to a habit that will impact their health throughout their life.

Talk To Us About Sealants

If your child continues to struggle with brushing, you may think about sealants. Sealants are beneficial protective barriers applied to the biting surfaces of teeth. A sealant aids in preventing food particles from lodging in difficult places to brush including the pits and grooves in the rear molars. Call 813-321-3261 to schedule an appointment with Kernagis Dental Excellence.