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Ways to Make Brushing Fun for Preschoolers:
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Begin
with a visit to your Dentist. Dental professional will teach
your child the proper way to brush, using "kid-friendly"
words.
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Let
your child select their own toothbrush and toothpaste.
Many colorful child-sized toothbrushes are available on the market, as
well as toothpastes in flavors that appeal to kids. However,
make sure that the toothbrush has soft or very soft, rounded bristles
so they do not damage your child's gums or tooth enamel.
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Be
sure your child uses only a very small amount of toothpaste on their
brush. Kids tend to swallow toothpaste, and it is important that
the child does not receive an overdose of fluoride. If your
child does not like toothpaste, you can always depend on that
changing. In the meantime, you do not want your child's dental
hygiene sessions to turn into a battle.
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If
your home has more than one bathroom, keep a toothbrush and toothpaste
for the child in each one to facilitate making brushing more
convenient.
- Using stickers or some other
artwork, make little signs to put on your child's plate at mealtime,
or on their pillow before bed, as a reminder for the child to brush.
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Brush
your pet's teeth, and let your child help - or at least watch.
Not only does this reinforce the idea that clean teeth are important,
it is also good for your pet.
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Praise
your child's brushing efforts and the results they are
producing. Try saying "Your teeth are so sparkly!" or
"Your breath smells so good!". They will be delighted
that you noticed, and the positive effects of brushing will be
reinforced.
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Try
sharing some books about dental hygiene with your child. Some
good ones are Dragon Teeth and Parrot Beaks - Even Creatures Brush
Their Teeth, by Almute Grohmann, and Just Going to the
Dentist, by Mercer Mayer.
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You
and your child can make up silly toothbrushing songs set to familiar
melodies like "The ABC Song," "Mary Had a Little
Lamb," or "Row, Row, Row your Boat."
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And
finally, because children learn by example, be sure your child sees you
brushing and flossing your own teeth every single day. It's good for
them, and good for you!
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