[TenorD]

Originally Posted by Melly101

Hi,

I have been in the dental field for 14yrs. Did I still have to fight with my first child about brushing and flossing? Yes.

What worked for my strong-willed child? After three flavors of toothpaste, and who knows how many fancy brushes?

First, we went to the library and got an awesome Bear Book, I think the title was Baby Bear Brushes his teeth, (but there are plenty of good books for kids, on brushing.)
Anyways, in there was a picture of plaque, or as they called them...SugarBugs!!!

My dd was so grossed out that they were in her teeth and could be making houses (cavities), and smelly breath, that she never missed brushing and flossing again.

PLUS...she re-told the story to her little brother and sister later in years, when they didn't want to brush. Of course my son had to ask what else do Sugar Bugs do in your mouth? Houses, ...eat, ...POOP?! Well, what could I say? I said, "yes", knowing they wouldn't understand acid pH's, etc. and all three never miss brushing and flossing. I don't even know if they remember the conversation since they were so little, but they know it's important to get the plaque out of their mouths everyday.

Well, a bit twisted maybe, Funny definitely...but it worked. Don't give up!

Melonie

That's great! I'm going to try that with my kids.