Your Special Needs Child - 3 Tips For Brushing




It can be very difficult to get your child to brush and floss their teeth. It can be even more difficult for parents who have a child with special needs. They may dig in their heels, have trouble with the bristles of the brush, or not like the toothpaste. Whatever the reason that is negatively impacting the tooth brushing process, here are 3 tips from pediatric dentist Dr. Cameron Fuller on how to help your child brush their teeth.

Let your child pick out their toothbrush and pick more than one. Just because a toothbrush looks awesome in the box doesn’t mean it will be awesome when they put it in their mouth. Purchase a couple of different ones they want to try to allow you some options. The head of the toothbrush should fit comfortably in their mouth.

Give them plenty of time in the morning and evening. Instead of rushing them to brush their teeth, try setting a timer that allows them to know that within a certain amount of time they will need to begin to brush their teeth. By setting the timer you are setting up structured parameters that help provide visual supports for them.

“Make it fun,” says Dr. Fuller. Every task is better when you make it fun. Make it a game, play music or brush their teddy bear’s teeth while they brush their own teeth. Whichever tactic that works and will help to motivate your child to brush their teeth.

For more information on tips of tooth brushing with your special needs child, contact Dr. Fuller & his team.

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