5 Essential Tips for Establishing a Healthy Oral Hygiene Routine for Kids
When one of my daughters was young, we worked hard to create a good bedtime routine for cleaning her teeth. Some nights, it felt like we really had it down. After helping her with PJs, I’d get her toothbrush ready, sit on the floor, and she’d lay her head in my lap. I’d brush and floss her teeth, and off to bed she went.
Other nights were a different story—tears, complaints, and even a little wrestling. These tough nights happen to every parent. Kids have big feelings and haven’t yet developed the fine motor skills to brush their teeth properly until around age 8. Until then, it’s up to us to make sure their teeth are taken care of.
Here are 5 essential tips to establish a good oral hygiene routine:
1. Be Consistent
It’s okay if you don’t get it perfect every day. What matters is consistency. Sticking to a routine gives kids a sense of security and helps build good oral health habits.
2. Set a Time
Choose a specific time for brushing, whether after breakfast or before bed. Linking it to a daily activity makes it easier to remember and maintain.
3. Make It Fun
Turn brushing into an enjoyable experience by singing songs, telling stories, or finding something your child loves.
4. Follow Guidelines
Brush twice a day and floss once. Use a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for kids under three and a pea-sized amount for those three and up. Encourage your child to spit without rinsing to help prevent cavities.
5. Remember You’re Doing Great
Parenting is hard, and establishing routines can feel overwhelming. Do your best, celebrate small wins, and know you’re doing a fantastic job.
Here’s to happy teeth!