We’ve all been there – standing over our children and trying to get them to clean their teeth in the morning before school, or struggling to get them into the routine before bed. Even teenagers can be reluctant to clean their teeth!

At Heaton Mersey, your friendly orthodontist based near Stockport, we’ve got plenty of tips and tricks up our sleeve to help reluctant kids brush better – and longer, too. As Invisalign experts, we know that this can make all the difference to kids’ oral health during braces treatment too, so read on to find out more.

Find their motivation

For some kids, all it takes is a little motivation to get them going. Whether it’s a reward chart or stickers for younger kids, or pocket money for the bigger kids, it’s worth it in the long-run, as your persistence can help them establish good oral health habits for life.

Make it interesting

While little children will no doubt want their favourite cartoon character on their toothbrush, older kids and teens will relish their own electric toothbrush – and research suggests that these may be more effective at keeping teeth in top condition, too. For those with removable braces, such as Invisalign, it’s important to remove them before eating, drinking and teeth-brushing. This helps keep them as clear braces!

Timer at the ready

Two minutes can seem like an impossibly long time for stubborn kids. Playing a song during the process, using a timer on their phone or even getting a toothbrush hourglass can make the experience more fun. Remember, those with Invisalign braces need to be wearing them for 20-22 hours per day and removing them for brushing.

Lead by example

If you’ve neglected your own oral health, you can hardly expect your kids to take good care of their own smiles. Lead by example by brushing with them, booking a dental check-up at the same time as them, and showing them how to brush effectively. Of course, our expert orthodontists can always help with tricks and techniques!

Contact us today

Are you interested in braces? Want whiter teeth? Or need advice on the best brush to buy? Our team of expert orthodontists in Stockport are ready and waiting to help. Get in touch today to find out what we can do for you and your family, whether it’s a quick check, an in-depth treatment or a consultation to explore our recommendations.