One of the great joys of being a parent is seeing your little one grow. It’s so exciting to see them hit their many milestones, especially losing their first tooth! While it’s fun for children to place their pearly white under their pillow and excitedly wait for a surprise gift, it’s a perfect time for a parent to capitalize on their missing tooth to use as a teaching moment. By introducing the tooth fairy in a way that motivates them to care for their smile, you will be helping them to build excellent long-term oral health habits. Here are four ways how!
#1. The Tooth Fairy Prefers Healthy Teeth
In the Tooth Fairy’s world, not all teeth have equal value! As you teach your child to effectively brush their teeth and floss daily, you can emphasize that she likes healthy, shiny pearly whites. You can also tell your little one that there are special rewards for especially “loved” teeth. A special note or certificate of congratulations can be left when you know your child has done an exceptional job with their dental routine.
#2. The Tooth Fairy Cares About More Than Just Lost Teeth
The myth of the tooth fairy can turn an otherwise scary event of losing a baby tooth into a much-anticipated reward of a special visit and gift. You can even use her presence to help your child have a positive feeling about going to the dentist, another dental event that can cause anxiety. The tooth fairy can add an extra reward for your child attending their dental checkups and cleanings.
#3. Reward Your Child with Fun Oral Health Products
Do you have trouble getting your child to care for their teeth? Fun oral health products, like flavored toothpaste and cartoon character decorated toothbrushes, can help make it a more exciting activity. Every time your child loses a baby tooth, you can leave behind motivational dental care products. There are even delightful books they can enjoy that encourage practicing an excellent oral hygiene routine!
#4. Make a Dental Habit Tracker
Keeping track of their daily smile-friendly habits helps your little one keep their teeth and gums in top condition and encourages them to keep up the good work! Children love a colorful, engaging visual reminder. The tooth fairy can leave behind special stickers and progress trackers to show how much she cares about their smile. She can recognize certain achievements, like flossing for a certain number of days in a row.
About the Author
Celebration Family Dental of Carrollton is eager to help keep you and your family’s smile whole, healthy, and beautiful. Their two dental experts offer a comprehensive range of dental services to help keep your oral health in top condition. With over 600 excellent reviews on Google, they can successfully help keep your teeth and gums in top condition. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (469) 694-3766.