A Parent’s Guide to Emergency Dental Care

Posted on: 13 November 2017

Toddlers are energetic, curious, and full of wonder as they explore the world. While toddlers are a blessing to any family, they can also be very headstrong and resistant to things that they don't want to do. It is not uncommon for parents to have a toddler who does not want his or her teeth brushed each morning and evening. If you have a toddler who hates teeth brushing, use the following tips to help reduce brushing resistance:

Involve Your Toddler

Many toddlers enjoy being a part of what is going on in their lives. When you have a toddler who doesn't want his or her teeth brushed, considered giving them a more active role so he or she feels involved. Start by letting your child pick out a toothbrush-- there are so many different types of toothbrushes for young kids, and letting your child choose the one that he or she wants can make teeth brushing look much more attractive.

Take Turns

Young toddlers typically don't have the motor skills to properly brush their teeth on their own. But, trying to brush the teeth of a toddler who is resisting isn't easy either, and as a parent, there is a good chance that you will miss spots if your child isn't cooperating. A good solution is to take turns brushing your toddler's teeth-- let him or her brush for a little bit in order to feel some freedom and autonomy, and then take over to help ensure that each tooth is clean. Giving your toddler some control can make teeth brushing a much easier process.

Brush Together

If your toddler is hesitant about teeth brushing, consider brushing your teeth together. Toddlers often model the behavior that they see from their parents, so if your child sees you happily brushing your teeth, there is a good chance that he or she will follow your lead. You may want to make it more fun by adding songs about brushing teeth or making funny faces in the mirror as you both clean your teeth.

Always Offer Praise

As a parent, you know how important it is to take care of your toddler's teeth. But toddlers are not aware of how important oral health is. When your child does well having his or her teeth brushed, make sure that you over a lot of praise. Over time, your toddler will come to associate teeth brushing with positive reinforcement, which can make twice a day brushing much easier. 

To learn more, contact a company like Affordable Dental Care.