TODDLER TEETH – 5 TIPS

FOR HELPING YOUR LITTLE

ONE WITH DENTAL HYGIENE

www.kennewickdental.net

DR. CRAIG BARNEY

START EARLY

As early as age 2 or 3, you can start explainingthe importance of brushing to your kid.

Making oral care a daily routine is good forchildren because they do well with familiarity.

www.kennewickdental.net

DR. CRAIG BARNEY

TIPS: Wiping down the gums with awarm, damp cloth can do a lot of good.

Once the teeth emerge, brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush is the way to go.

SHOW CONSEQUENCES OF POOR ORAL CARE

Showing your kids photos of serious cavities,swollen gums, and missing teeth can help yourtoddler associate bad dental hygiene with ugly,scary images.

Doing so will motivate them to maintain theirteeth and to be diligent in oral hygiene.

www.kennewickdental.net

DR. CRAIG BARNEY

MAKE ORAL HYGIENE FUN

Show them children’s educational videos, playdental-themed games with them, sing ahomemade song to remind them of dentalissues. Be creative and they will be moreinclined to brush their teeth.

Allow them to choose their own toothbrushes.They will surely enjoy brushing their teeth witha toothbrush that has their favorite cartooncharacter on it!

www.kennewickdental.net

DR. CRAIG BARNEY

TAKE YOUR TODDLER TO MEET THE DENTIST

Introducing your child to the dentist early inlife will help when they are older and ready tosee the dentist regularly.

Many young children have an irrational fear ofthe dentist because it is unfamiliar to them.

Children do well with familiarity so taking themto see their dentist regularly will help themease any fears they may have.

www.kennewickdental.net

DR. CRAIG BARNEY

HELP THEM LEARN BY EXAMPLE

Children learn best through mimicking thebehaviors of other people. You can train yourchild to brush by going through the motionswhile he or she is by your side.

Brushing your teeth together with yourchildren will make them realize that oralhygiene is not a chore but a necessity.

www.kennewickdental.net

DR. CRAIG BARNEY