Helping your toddler brush their teeth can be challenging to say the least. However, it is  important to instill good brushing skills and habits at a young age, so don’t give up! If you are struggling to get those cute little mouths clean, consider trying some of these awesome tips and tricks.

1. Mirror Mom & Dad – Children have an innate desire to copy what others do, so having them watch you brush your teeth, as well as any older siblings already in the habit, can work wonders at introducing the task at hand.
2. Brush in the Bathtub – Parents have long noticed that for some reason children tend to protest the brushing of their teeth less while in the bathtub getting bathed. Perhaps it is the regimen of bathing that helps, or the idea of getting cleaned that assists the child in getting over the obstacle.
3. Make it a Game – Try brushing for a few seconds in the child’s mouth, then a few seconds on the “mouth” of a stuffed animal, or toy. This seems to cut back on the stress of brushing for a few minutes all at once.
4. Sing a Song – Make up a song while your brushing! Use this opportunity to make them laugh, and use brushing as the canvas for a song to keep them in the mood.
5. Scavenger Hunt – Talk about finding their favorite toys, characters and food in their mouths, and children seem to forget you’re invading of their mouth with this giant torture device.
6. Empower you child -Some of us have children that want to do everything on their own. Well, here’s a chance to let them take a stab at doing just that. If your kid is the type of individual who likes to do everything without assistance, let ’em try their hand at brushing. But be sure that independence doesn’t come without supervision.

To see where these tips came from and learn even more about toddler teeth brushing, check out this article, https://www.patientconnect365.com/DentalHealthTopics/Article/Teach_Me_How_to_Brushy_6_Toddler_Training_Tips.

Here at Brookdale Dental, we are happy to help you with any of your dental concerns. To schedule a cleaning for you or your children, give us a call at (208)373-0018, visit our webiste, or stop in a visit us at our office in Boise Idaho!