Dentist for Kids in Encinitas knows when kids are little, getting them to brush can be quite a challenge. Children initially tend to bite a toothbrush and eat the toothpaste. Kids make faces in the bathroom mirror, run the brush across their teeth and flee the bathroom. Some kids will even resort to kicking and screaming to avoid brushing, which can make bedtime in Encinitas a lot like pulling teeth.

One suggestion is turning brush time into a game. Kids love games, from playing a hide and seek to a peek-a-boo game. Singing the ABC’s as your child brushes for two minutes is also recommended. Just turn the brushing process into play. If the child does a good job brushing, put a sticker on the calendar as a reward. Let a certain amount of stickers achieve a reward or treat at the end of the week.

Another way to make brushing fun is by getting a fun toothbrush. For instance, a toothbrush that lights up and blinks when you turn it on is more fun than a traditional toothbrush. Another suggestion is a toothbrush shaped like your child’s favorite animal or cartoon character.

Dentist for Kids in Encinitas knows children can also be notoriously picky eaters, so it stands to reason that they would enjoy toothpaste flavors too. Little Johnny might like cherry, whereas Elsie might prefer grape in Encinitas. Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry at 760-633-1131 suggests buying a few flavors to experiment with and find one that the children love.