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A new year always feels like a fresh start, not just for adults, but for kids, too. If you’re hoping to help your child build healthier habits this year, their dental routine is a great place to begin. Good brushing and flossing habits formed early tend to stick, and they make a huge difference in preventing cavities, avoiding unnecessary dental work, and keeping kids confident about their smiles. At Flossen Family Dental , we see every day how a little guidance at home can set kids up for long-term oral health. Here are some practical, real-world tips to help your child build better dental habits in the months ahead. 1. Go Back to the Basics: Brushing and Flossing (the Right Way) Most kids think they know how to brush, but they usually rush through it or miss important areas. Even older kids often need a little coaching. A few reminders that make a big difference: Brush twice a day for two full minutes Aim the brush toward the gumline and use small, gentle strokes Clean the tongue Floss once a day (yes, even for little teeth!) Kids love timers, music, or brushing apps, anything that turns brushing into a game rather than a chore. 2. Give Them the Right Tools Kids are more likely to brush well when the toothbrush actually fits their mouth. A small, soft-bristled brush makes brushing easier. For some kids, an electric toothbrush is a game changer because it helps with technique and includes built-in timers. A few kid-friendly options that help: Soft-bristled brushes with fun colors or characters Mild, kid-approved toothpaste flavors Floss picks for little hands Water flossers for sensitive kids Letting them choose their own toothbrush is a surprisingly effective motivator. 3. Build Dental Care into Their Daily Routine Consistency is everything. When brushing and flossing are just part of the morning and bedtime routine like getting dressed or washing hands, kids stop thinking of it as optional. A few things that help: Brush together when you can Keep brushes and floss out and easy to grab Use a simple checklist or sticker chart Celebrate small wins to keep them encouraged Kids love predictability, and routines help them understand what’s expected. 4. Make Smarter Snack Choices Even if your child brushes well, diet plays a major role in their dental health. Frequent snacking, especially sugary snacks can increase cavity risk. Tooth-friendly snacks include: Cheese, yogurt, or nuts Fruits and vegetables Whole-grain crackers Water instead of juice If they do have something sweet, a quick rinse with water helps minimize the impact. 5. Talk About the Dentist in a Positive Way Kids pick up on how their parents talk about dental visits. If they hear anxious or negative language, they’ll expect something scary, even when the appointment is routine. Try describing dental visits as: A checkup to keep their smile healthy A chance to “count teeth” or “check for sugar bugs” A positive milestone, like a haircut or well-child check At Flossen Family Dental, we work hard to make every visit comfortable and kid-friendly , so a positive attitude at home goes a long way. 6. Don’t Skip Regular Checkups Even with great brushing, kids still need professional cleanings and exams twice a year. These appointments help catch early issues, give kids confidence, and reinforce the habits they’re building at home. During a visit, we’ll: Check their teeth and gums Provide a gentle cleaning Spot early signs of decay or alignment concerns Talk with your child about brushing in a way they understand Regular visits are one of the strongest predictors of good long-term oral health. 7. Be the Example They Follow This one is simple, but incredibly effective: let your kids see you brush and floss. When dental care feels like something the whole family does, kids naturally follow along. Even small gestures like showing them how you floss or replacing your toothbrush when they replace theirs, help reinforce the message. Let This Be the Year of Better Dental Habits Improving your child’s brushing and flossing routine doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little consistency, some encouragement, and the right tools, kids can build habits that will protect their smiles for years to come. If your child is due for a cleaning or you’d like more personalized guidance, the team at Flossen Family Dental is here to help. We love working with kids and making dental care feel relaxed, positive, and even fun, because a confident smile starts early. Schedule your appointment online or give us a call at (239) 542-1800.