Photo by RDNE Stock project
Getting kids excited about oral hygiene can be a challenge. And it shows. Recent studies say that about 51% of children brush their teeth twice a day as recommended. Plus, nearly one in five kids between the ages of 5 and 11 has at least one untreated cavity, and over 13% of children between 5 and 19 suffer from untreated tooth decay.
Poor oral care can have serious consequences. Not only does it lead to painful dental problems, but children with poor oral health are also three times more likely to miss school due to dental pain. This just emphasizes the need for parents to instill good dental habits from a young age.
Dr. Turab Rai, DMD, a trusted family dentist and owner of Franklin Dental Care & Dentures in Franklin, Ohio, and the founder of Bright Smiles Community Outreach Coalition and the Turabify Network, focuses on making dental care accessible and affordable especially for children. Passionate about patient education and oral health awareness in the community, Dr. Rai understands that children often resist oral care. He shares 7 creative ways for the family to make dental hygiene an enjoyable part of their daily routine:
- Brush Together as a Family
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk
Children learn by watching their parents. Instead of simply reminding them to brush, make it a shared family activity. Standing side by side at the sink, parents can set a positive example, turning brushing into a fun and interactive bonding experience.
2. Let Them Pick Their Own Toothbrush
Photo by Alex P
Giving kids the freedom to choose their own toothbrush can make a big difference in how they feel about brushing. A toothbrush featuring their favorite superhero or cartoon character adds excitement to the routine, making them more eager to participate. Parents should ensure that the toothbrush is both fun and age-appropriate for effective cleaning.
3. Create a Story Around Brushing
Photo by Mikhail Nilov
Children love a good story, so why not turn brushing into an imaginative adventure? Tell them their toothbrush is a superhero fighting off cavity-causing plaque monsters, or invent a tale about their teeth being a magical kingdom that needs protection. Engaging their imagination makes brushing feel like an exciting mission rather than a daily obligation.
4. Use Music and Brushing Timers
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
Music makes everything more enjoyable, and brushing is no exception. Playing a fun song or using a musical toothbrush can make brushing more entertaining while ensuring kids brush for the full two minutes. Many apps and timers are also available that add an element of fun while reinforcing the habit.
5. Make Flossing Fun with Colorful Tools
Photo from Bigamart
Flossing can be tricky for little hands, but using flossers shaped like dinosaurs, animals, or favorite characters can make the process more engaging. Bright, child-friendly flossing tools make kids more likely to incorporate flossing into their routine, ensuring complete oral care.
6. Share Fun Dental Facts
Photo from Mentalfloss
Children love learning cool and surprising facts. Parents can make oral hygiene more interesting by sharing fun trivia, such as how flossing cleans 40% of tooth surfaces that brushing alone cannot reach, or how elephants use branches as natural floss. Educational yet entertaining facts help kids understand the importance of oral hygiene in a playful way.
7. Let Them Choose Their Favorite Toothpaste Flavor
Photo by Mizuno K
Toothpaste doesn’t have to be boring! Allowing kids to pick a kid-friendly flavor—such as bubblegum, berry, or watermelon—can make brushing a more pleasant experience. When they enjoy the taste, they’ll be more likely to brush without resistance.
The Root of the Matter
Dr. Turab Rai emphasizes that making oral hygiene a positive and engaging experience is key to helping children develop lifelong dental habits. By turning brushing and flossing into an enjoyable daily routine, parents can set their children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles while reducing the risk of cavities and dental issues. The earlier these habits are formed, the better the chances of maintaining excellent oral health well into adulthood.
If you want to know more about Dr. Turab Rai and his dental practice, you can visit the Franklin Dental Care & Dentures website here or follow him on Facebook.
