Updated: 2/21/2020
The Mom’s Guide to Caring for Little Teeth is here!
I had the privilege of interviewing the wonderful Rita from Fighting Frumpy for the Mom’s Guide, and she had some great ideas for keeping up with the dental health of her 3 rambunctious boys! Here’s what she said about sand timers and “tiny, ugly germs”:
What have you done to teach your kids how to brush their teeth?
Actually, I’ve let our dentist do it! From the time the kids’ teeth come in, I make sure they get regular cleanings. In our experience, the first few visits to the dentist’s office are devoted more to education than they are to actually cleaning. The kids get familiar with the equipment and get guidance and instruction from the dentist and/or his assistants, and it’s a real learning experience. Then I can remind them to use those new skills when we brush their teeth at home.
What helpful tips would you give to other moms?
My kids are 5, 3, and 1, so I’ve got to make it fun in order for them to sit still long enough to brush thoroughly. There’s a song on one of their favorite shows that says something about “tiny ugly germs.” I sing my own little song about cavities and plaque set to its tune, and the kids are so entranced with watching me act silly while they brush that they do a pretty good job! Also, their dentist gave them a little sand timer, and they like to brush until the sand runs out. Either way, a fun distraction makes for better brushing at our house.
How do you encourage your kids to take care of their teeth?
Make it an unchangeable part of your daily schedule. When it’s always right before bed, or the last thing they do before leaving for school, it becomes a routine.
What would you personally like to know about your kids’ dental health?
Because I have 3 rambunctious boys, it seems like someone is always getting an injury to his mouth. I have made after-hours calls to the dentist more than once to ask about loosened baby teeth or bruised gums. So for me, I’d like more information readily available about emergency dental health!
The Mom’s Guide is full of helpful tips on what to do in a dental emergency, so you’ll know just what to do in a playground accident or fierce sibling rivalry gone awry.
What would YOU like to know about dental health for kids?
Let us know your questions, and we’ll do our best to address them in the Mom’s Guide!
Read a few of our other interviews for the Mom’s Guide:
Informative post. It is very important to take your children to a kid-friendly dentist. Many children do not enjoy dental visits, mainly because of the unfriendly environment. See a dentist for children who enjoy working with infants and children.
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