Fun ways to get your kids excited about dental care
As parents, we all dream of seeing our children’s bright, healthy smiles. But let’s face it, getting them excited about brushing and flossing can be tough. The good news is that with a touch of creativity and enthusiasm, you can transform dental care from a routine chore into a fun and engaging daily adventure for your kids.
Turn toothbrushing into a game
Who says brushing your teeth has to be a chore? Make it one of your kids’ favourite games. Start by using a fun, colourful timer or a sand timer to challenge your child to brush their teeth for the full time (ideally two minutes). To make it even more engaging, set up a reward system where they earn a sticker or a small, healthy treat each time they complete the brushing session.
Make it a family activity
When the whole family brushes together, it turns toothbrushing into a fun, shared activity instead of a solo chore. Set a specific time each day for everyone to brush their teeth together. Take turns picking your favorite song to brush along to – this makes the routine more enjoyable and helps everyone keep track of brushing for the full two minutes.
Get creative with toothbrushes and toothpaste
Sometimes, the key to excitement lies in the tiny details. Let your child to choose their own toothbrush featuring a beloved superhero, princess, or cartoon character. A toothbrush with their favourite design can make the task feel special. Let them experiment with different toothpaste flavours too. Kid-friendly options come in a variety of fun flavours like bubble-gum or fruit flavour.
Use positive reinforcement
Encouragement can be a powerful motivator. Praise your child for their excellent brushing habits and set up a reward system to keep them motivated. For example, they could earn points each day they brush and floss well, which they can then trade for a special outing or treat. To make tracking easy and fun, use a printable tooth brushing chart.
Check your child’s eligibility for free* dental with the CDBS
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) gives families a great opportunity to support their children’s dental health without financial stress. This government initiative provides eligible children with up to $1,095 in dental benefits over two calendar years, covering everything from basic check-ups to more extensive treatments. By using the CDBS, you can help your children keep their teeth and gums healthy while easing the strain on your family budget. Check your eligibility and schedule regular dental visits to make the most of this valuable benefit.
Make dental care a fun and engaging part of your child’s routine will help them develop lifelong healthy habits and keep their smiles bright. Regular check-ups are essential for maintaining those healthy smiles, so book your check-up with your dentist to keep your child’s dental health in top shape.
*Free when services covered by the Australian Government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) are bulk billed by participating Practitioners for treatments provided to eligible patients.
