If you’re struggling to get your teenager to brush regularly, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue we see in our dental practice.
We understand that teens aren’t always excited about brushing their teeth, but brushing isn’t an option, it’s a must.
Skipping the brush might seem harmless, but it can snowball into some nasty problems. Issues like tooth decay, bad breath, tooth discoloration, and gum disease often start in the teen years.
These issues can lead to more serious dental work later on, including root canals or even dentures. Such procedures are not only costly but can also be quite painful.
What many don’t realize is that poor oral hygiene can also lead to other health problems that go beyond just a sore mouth.
Ways to Help Teens Stick to Regular Brushing
We understand that getting teens to brush their teeth regularly can be a challenge. Many parents find themselves repeating the same reminders day after day. Below, we share some tips to help your teenager take better care of their teeth.
Talk About the Big Picture
Sit down with your teen and have an honest chat about oral health. Don’t sugarcoat it. Explain how neglecting their teeth can affect their whole body, not just their mouth.
Mention that yellow teeth and bad breath might impact their social life, too. Sometimes, they need to hear the harsh truth to take action.
Upgrade Their Tools
Consider getting an electric toothbrush with a tracking app, like a Sonicare toothbrush. These can make brushing more fun and effective. If flossing is a struggle, try a water flosser. They’re easy to use and can feel pretty good, too.
Set a Good Example
Brush your teeth alongside your teen and make sure they do the same properly. While it may initially feel like you’re being overly involved or overbearing, this approach can be effective in helping them establish a consistent routine. Once they’ve developed the habit down, you can ease off.
Get to the Root of the Problem
If your teenager isn’t brushing their teeth, there might be a reason. Maybe they hate the minty taste of toothpaste, or the brush feels weird on their gums. Talk to them and try to understand what’s holding them back.
Reward Them for Brushing
When your teenager sticks to their brushing routine, a little recognition can make a big impact. Simple praise like “great job” often does the trick, but for major achievements, consider bigger rewards.
A cavity-free dental visit might warrant a special lunch out, while a month of consistent brushing could earn a small gift card. These rewards don’t need to be costly, just meaningful enough to reinforce good habits and show them that their efforts matter.
Consider Underlying Issues
Sometimes, skipping brushing can be a sign of something deeper. Conditions like ADHD or depression can make it hard to stick to routines and keep up with personal care. If you’re concerned, it might be worth checking in with a healthcare provider.
Keep in mind that every teenager is different. What works for one might not work for another. These strategies are meant to give you ideas, not hard-and-fast rules.
The most important things are communication, patience, and understanding. Talk with your teen, listen to their concerns, and work together to find solutions.
Brushing teeth is the easiest step in a teenager’s oral health routine. While it’s the most basic action, it’s important to note that many other factors affect oral health, too. Diet, for instance, plays a significant role.
However, regular brushing remains the simplest habit teens can adopt for dental care. Another aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked is professional dental care.
Taking your teen to the dentist regularly does more than just clean their teeth. It helps them understand why brushing matters.
Your teen’s dentist can spot problems early and can be a big help in getting your child to brush their teeth. Sometimes, hearing it from someone else makes them more likely to listen.
Remember, patience is key. What works today might not work tomorrow, so stay flexible and keep trying new approaches.
Read Also: The Facts About Wisdom Teeth: A Must-Read for Teens
As your local dentist for teens in Lafayette and surrounding areas, we’re here to support both you and your teenager. We can offer personalized advice, address any concerns, and make dental care less daunting for your teen.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a dental appointment with us.