Tips to Get Your Whole Family Excited About Dental Hygiene

Fall is in full swing, and for most children, the autumn season means the arrival of one of their favorite holidays — Halloween. But with more than 43% of children ages 2-19 having cavities, October is a perfect time to think about dental hygiene.   

Fortunately, October is also National Dental Hygiene Month, and at the private practice of Robert F. Wilcox, DMD, in Butte, Montana, we couldn’t be more excited. We provide a comprehensive line of dental services to keep your entire family’s teeth healthy and strong.

Dr. Wilcox and our dental experts put their heads together to give you our top tips on getting the whole family excited about dental hygiene. Keep reading to learn what you need to know about dental hygiene. 

Make dental hygiene a family affair

Kids are more likely to brush and floss their teeth without complaint if the entire family is involved. Brush and floss with your children so they learn by example, and stay excited when it’s time to clean your teeth. In addition to healthier teeth, you’ll squeeze in extra quality family time, too.  

Give kids a choice

Help your children feel empowered and excited about dental hygiene by letting them pick out their own toothbrushes. 

Having their favorite cartoon character or a toothbrush in their favorite color or pattern will help them stay excited about dental hygiene. Just be sure the toothbrush they select is approved by the American Dental Association.    

You can also let your child choose their own toothpaste, one that’s different from the standard mint-flavored toothpaste mom and dad use. 

Kid-friendly, ADA-approved toothpastes come in a variety of flavors that are sure to please, like strawberry and bubblegum. Just be sure your kids don’t try to eat the toothpaste!

Make a game of it

Positive reinforcement can go a long way toward good dental hygiene. Turn brushing and flossing into a game. Check out the charts and coloring pages provided by the National Children’s Oral Health Foundation (America’s ToothFair), or make your own. 

Associate oral hygiene with fun

For even more fun, whenever your child visits Dr. Wilcox, schedule something fun as a reward for a job well done. A trip to the park, library, or zoo can create positive associations with good oral hygiene practices. 

Keep things light

As your child grows, talk to them again and again about the importance of dental hygiene, but keep it light and fun. Look for age-appropriate cartoons or books about why brushing and flossing your teeth is important, and don’t be afraid to act silly and make up a song or dance to make your child laugh.

Visit the right dentist

Take time to research your family’s dentist and make sure you and your children will be comfortable with the dentist you choose. Dr. Wilcox has worked for years helping men, women, and children achieve good oral health. He’s happy to answer any questions you and your child have. 

Learn more about getting your family excited about National Dental Hygiene Month by contacting our office in Butte, Montana.