Dental Health Lessons - Teaching Kids Properly

Dental health lessons for preschoolers are an important part of teaching good dental hygiene habits that will last a lifetime. Starting early ensures that caring for the teeth will become an important part of the daily routine for preschoolers- a routine that will carry over into adolescence and adulthood with persistence and patient teaching.

Preschoolers are generally interested in what cartoon character is on their toothbrush and what flavor is incorporated in the tube than what the purpose of actually using these items is. But, with a little bit of patience, teaching dental care to preschoolers doesn't need to be an arduous task.

Brushing for Preschoolers

Preschoolers need your guidance with regards to brushing, and brushing properly. You can help through verbal instruction, demonstrations, and even fun activities like making up little songs that teach them how to correctly brush.

Even though you will most likely have to allow your child to brush his / her teeth independently for several minutes, then repeat the procedure yourself to ensure their teeth are brushed well, this can be a worthwhile task. It teaches your child that he or she is ultimately responsible for caring for their teeth, and that with practice, they can eventually perform the task without assistance.

One way you can motivate your preschooler to pay attention to every area of their mouth is by investing in colored mouth rinse. This unique innovation shows the child where they missed because the color stays! Fun flavored toothpastes and cool toothbrushes can go a long way in helping them keep on task longer too.

Flossing for Preschoolers

If teaching preschoolers to brush isn't hard enough - try teaching them to floss! While brushing may be taught in months, even weeks, flossing could take years. You could start by just letting them place their hands on yours to allow them to get a feel for what should be done. As time progresses, they will be able to do it by themselves. As with brushing though, you might have to go behind them for a while and ensure they got everything properly.

Dental health lessons for preschoolers are valuable life lessons that will stay with your children all their lives. Proper dental care leads to improved health, increased self-confidence, and a better self-image for your children. Dental health lessons should be an important part of every parent’s must-do list for their child.