Did you struggle with getting your child to brush her teeth? Many kids find it a chore and will avoid doing it as long as possible. Some children may even develop a phobia of toothbrushes and refuse to use one at all. If you think your child might be hiding their toothbrush in their backpack because they know you’ll check there, or that your child is going to scream the next time you ask them about dental hygiene, then we have a few ideas for you. We understand that as parents, trying to get your kid to do something they don’t want to do can often feel like an uphill battle.
Sometimes, children may hate brushing their teeth because they are expressing a desire for self-sufficiency, though they likely don’t have the words to express what they want clearly. In other cases, a kid’s resistance to teeth brushing may be rooted in sensory problems.
Do children hate brushing their teeth?
Kids have a lot on their plates during this time. Not only are they trying to figure out who they are and what they like, but they’re also growing and developing at an incredibly rapid pace. Everything even their teeth is changing. Your child may be going through an awkward stage that involves growing more than expected teeth. Kids’ teeth grow through a process called orofacial ossification.
This process causes new teeth to form underneath the gums, and they usually come in between the ages of 7 and 14 years. During this time, your child may experience some discomfort as their teeth grow in and push their other teeth out of the way. They may also have a lot of trouble chewing food if their teeth are growing at different rates. This can make it difficult for your child to eat the way they normally would, and it can cause a drop in their daily intake of nutrients. Seeing a dietitian can help with this problem.
Kids may have a Sensitivity to Toothpaste or Brushing.
Some kids may have a sensitivity to toothpaste. This can cause mild to severe discomfort and make brushing your child’s teeth very difficult. Sensitivity to toothpaste usually arises from the addition of sodium lauryl sulfate in the toothpaste, and it can cause mild to severe discomfort in the mouth.
If your child is experiencing pain when brushing their teeth, then it’s best to consult your dentist. They can help you and your child finds the right toothpaste for their needs. If your child doesn’t have a sensitivity to toothpaste, then they may just not like the taste. If this is the case, then you should try out different toothpaste flavours until you find one that your child loves.
Kids may not like the taste of your Toothpaste.
Just like adults, kids also have their own preferences when it comes to toothpaste. While they may have loved the particular flavour and brand you bought when they were a toddler, they might now find it very unpleasant. Most children who have outgrown their baby teeth prefer a different flavour than what they used when they were younger. The same goes for brands.
While you may have always used the same toothpaste perhaps your family’s favourite your child may now find it disgusting. If your child hates the taste of your toothpaste, then it may be time for a change. Try out different flavours until you find one your child likes. If you can’t find a flavour your child likes, then you may need to switch toothpaste brands altogether.
It’s not enjoyable or rewarding for them at this point.
Kids’ teeth may be sensitive, they may be growing at an unpleasantly slow rate, and they may be having trouble chewing their food but that doesn’t mean they’re excited about brushing their teeth. If your child hates brushing their teeth, then it’s probably because the task is boring and unappealing.
You may have to find a way to make brushing your child’s teeth more fun. You can do this by using special toothbrushes with fun shapes, by playing games while you brush your teeth or by rewarding your child with a small treat after they’re finished brushing.
Your kid has a motive for hating brushing her teeth.
Sometimes, your child may hate brushing their teeth because they have a hidden motive. If they know they won’t have to brush their teeth often, they may choose not to do it at all. you’re using an electric toothbrush, then you should still brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each. If you want to avoid brushing your child’s teeth, then try not to make a big deal about it.
If your child is old enough to understand the importance of brushing their teeth, then make sure they know that not brushing can lead to cavities, stained teeth, gum disease, and even tooth loss especially if they are younger than 15 years. If your child knows that brushing their teeth is important, then they may be less inclined to avoid the task.
Conclusion
You can tell your child all the benefits of healthy teeth and a healthy mouth, but it won’t matter if they’re not willing to do what it takes to keep their teeth clean. Your child may hate brushing their teeth because they’re growing, have a sensitivity to toothpaste, don’t like the taste of your toothpaste, or have an underlying motive for avoiding the task. Whatever the reason may be, you can help your child learn to love brushing their teeth again. You can also try changing the brand of toothpaste and flavour of toothpaste until you find one that your child loves and enjoys.
Suggested Article –
- Why do children need a Paediatric dentist?
- Hacks to tackle Dental issues in Children
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