January is here, which means that you’re probably already getting started on your New Year’s Resolutions. But have you thought about how your child could make a change in their life too? Maybe in the New Year, you could help your child to better their oral health.
Of course, getting your kid to do anything can be a bit of a tall order, but if you plan properly, you can potentially help your child to make a positive change in their dental hygiene. Here are a few New Year’s Resolutions that may help you do that.
Brushing Calendar
If you have a young child, even getting them to brush can be a little bit of a challenge. If your kid is older, you might struggle to have them floss every day or to get them to go to their dentist. If you want to incentivize them to do these things in the new year, you can try getting them a brushing calendar.
Get a regular calendar, or one specifically designed to assist with brushing, and cross off the day after your child has finished brushing their teeth. You can also mark dental appointments on this calendar to help your child remember them. If they manage to cross off an entire month, you can give them some kind of reward, like a toy or tooth-healthy candy.
Use a Timer to Brush for All Two Minutes
Children have a funny view of time; for them, two minutes of brushing can feel like an eternity. It can be a little difficult to get your kids to brush for the full amount of time. You can get them to make a commitment in the new year to brush properly, and get them a timer so that they can keep track.
This can be a physical hourglass, digital timer, or even an electric toothbrush that will keep track of the time for them. Some of these toothbrushes even play music to make the time go by faster!
Stay Hydrated
One way to get your child to commit to a habit is to find something that you can do together. Staying hydrated is simple enough for you and your child to commit to together.
Drinking more water facilitates the mouth’s saliva production, which serves as a natural cleanser. Make a deal with your child that you’ll both drink more water, and talk about your progress with them. That’ll make your whole family’s smiles brighter!
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan has been practicing for over ten years, and in that time she’s accumulated a great deal of experience. She knows getting your children to the dentist can be difficult, which is why she works hard to make her patients of all ages comfortable. Dr. Podray-Donovan received her dental doctorate from Temple University, and she serves as the Vice President of the Georgia Association of Orthodontists.
If you have any questions about taking care of your child’s oral health in the new year, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (678) 456-5572.