Please feel free to read my initial post for more information and statistics on why having healthy oral care habits is very important, https://www.shescribes.com/2012/02/listerine-reach-oral-care-blogger-challenge-healthyhabits.html.
I am happy to report that they are doing much better and with little to no nagging on my end. 🙂 My kids are not competitive people, but they are with each other. My daughter especially. She’s always been jealous of my son, only because he was a preemie and needed a lot of medical attention when he was younger and she was jealous of that attention he received. But that is another story…
We actually used a chart so the kids would keep track of every time they brushed and rinsed. Told them the prize would be a $10 towards iTunes. My kids love to download music for their iPods so they were happy about that.
Initially my son went a bit overboard by brushing A LOT. He’s brush in the AM, when he got home from school, after dinner and before bed. While that was commendable that he did that, it wasn’t necessary. I was just looking for the AM and PM.
The one thing I thought would be more of a challenge is to get my whole family (myself included) to use a mouth rinse at least twice a day. That is because brushing alone misses 75% of the plaque and germs that develop in your mouth. Ewwww! Using a rinse helps to remove the things that brushing alone misses.
For my kids the trick was simply to have a mouth rinse in flavors that they like. Kids don’t like harsh and strong mouth rinses and they really shouldn’t be using “grown up” mouth rinse with a lot of alcohol in it. Thankfully Listerine has plenty of kid friendly mouth rinses in flavors they enjoy. I honestly didn’t have to encourage them to rinse mouth because they did it on their own simply because they enjoyed the mouth rinse flavors that I offered them.
Here are some more helpful tips to help your family your family with their healthy oral care habits. You will need to be able to open .PDF files in order to read them. Most computers can already do that. If you need a reader you can visit Adobe.com and download the reader for free.
I’m also including the link to a calendar you can download and print out to use with your kids.
Simply click on the bolded words below to read each file. There are A LOT of great tips included that you should really take a moment to check out.
Lifetimes of Smiles – Tips for Engaging Kids Early in Oral Care
Because having healthy oral care habits is very important, not only for the health of your teeth but also for your overall health (plaque and gum disease can cause other health problems), Listerine and Reach are proudly supporting the American Heart Association’s My Heart. My Life initiative. Their goal is to educate and empower Americans to make positive lifestyle choices each day – including good oral care. To learn more about the American Heart Association’s My Heart. My Life. initiative, visit www.MyHeartMyLife.org.
I’m glad that my family was successful with their healthy oral care challenge and I am confident that this will continue, ideally for a lifetime. I’m glad we participated in the blogger challenge. 🙂
Check out Walmart for all your oral care needs. To find a Walmart near you visit www.Walmart.com.
In order to help your family get on track with healthy oral habits one lucky She Scribes reader will win a $100 Walmart gift card and Listerine and Reach product samples.
*** The tweet option in the Rafflecopter (below) is incorrect. Please use this tweet instead and leave the URL of the tweet in the comment section. Sorry for the inconvenience.
$100 Walmart GC #giveaway & mores. Help your family have #HealthyHabits when it comes to oral care. http://bit.ly/wM5qek @She_Scribes
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Kimberly
*I received free product samples in order to do this review. There will be a financial compensation however all opinions expressed are entirely my own and not influenced in any way.
** No purchase necessary. Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and District of Columbia, Eighteen (18) years of age or older. Sweepstakes end March 30, 2012. Prize(s) provided by Johnson & Johnson Healthcare Products, a division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc. Void where prohibited. See Official Rules for complete details: http://www.themotherhood.com/blog/?p=4832
Tamara B. says
Best tip always have the tools for them to keep their teeth clean on hand. I let the children pick out their toothbrushes, tooth paste and flossers. Buy little dixie cups in their favorite theme also.
Birdie Skolfield says
My best tip is to make a times game out of brushing for kids they love to watch the 2 minute times count down …2 min 3xs a day = great oral health
Dorothy Sandman says
I always bought the toothbrushes my children wanted!
Becky Page says
My son likes the mouthwash for kids that turns their teeth different colors. He thinks its pretty cool to watch his teeth turn blue, then brush the blue away!
Margaret Smith says
We try to set examples and we remind our kids both morning & night.
Thanks so much
Jodi B says
i made up a song in college and it kinda encouraging: if you dont brush your teeth, you will get cavities, gingivitis is bad if you get it you will be sad, so floss your teeth so your teeth wont bleed and remember, use listerine!
Mary Beth Elderton says
Consistency and modelling are the keys to so much that we would teach children, including teeth brushing.
Maryann D. says
I taught my children from very young never to go to bed without brushing their teeth and as they got older they floss and rinse each day too and they never forget.
paige chandler says
Lead by example.
Candie L says
I model for them. Thank you
Kiara says
My best tip is to lead by example.
austma7@aol.com
Patricia Wojnar Crowley says
I think setting a timer is a great way to teach kids about adequate brushing!
Nicole Richaud says
Be an example. Make it fun!
Claire says
i encourage flossing, too.
Serge B says
Do it with them!
Amber says
I always let the kids have dessert, but only if they brush their teeth right after!
J Winterberg says
It’s just all about consistency — it’s something you do, without exceptions, and it becomes habit as a result!
Kelly Nicholson says
brush often and floss too!
mary creekmore says
Love shopping at WalMart. Also like Listerine. Would love to win. Good luck, everyone.
TheAngelForever says
The best tip is to be a good role model and make brushing teeth into a fun time of the day. My kids love to help pick out new brushes and other items that they use to get involved.
Jessica T. says
I make it part of our morning and night time routine.
Barbara T says
Thing that works best for me is to make brushing, flossing, etc. part of the daily “must-do” routine.
chadro says
Keep the toothpaste and mouth wash right in front of their nose in the bathroom so the kids know and see it there and make a sign telling them to brush daily thats how I would encourage them
Nicole Leonard says
Brush your teeth in front of your kids!
Lisa Welch says
My best tip is kissing my kids hood morning and reminding them that they have Dragon Breath! LOL 😀
lace says
Using fun toothbrushes is a great way to get them excited about brushing. And start early even before they have teeth
Lynda Del says
My best tip is to lead by example.
Amanda Kinder says
They get to pick the toothpaste and toothbrush, that way it makes it more fun and includes them in the process.
Beth C says
Dental checkups every six months and get new toothbrushes regularly.
pbclark(at)netins(dot)net
Lisa Sheldon says
Replace toothbrushes regularly
Sheila Vives says
Let the kids pick out their own toothbrush, and a toothpaste they like, and brush teeth together until kids develop the habit of doing it on their own.
Adrienne gordon says
we make a chart of how long they brushed, they get a prize after 30 days of good brushing
Jacquelyn Cannon says
I remind my kids that it is important to floss and brush your teeth at least twice a day so that they will not have to wear dentures like their grandmother.
Susan Smith says
I let my kids pick out their own toothbrush. They brush twice a day and see the dentist twice a year,
Kathleen says
I make it fun for my daughter by singing and getting special toothpaste for kids
kport207 at gmail dot com
Johannah B says
Make sure they see you doing it… make sure you “model” what you’d want… and maybe even brush together with the kids. It’s not you go… but lets all go …
Mami2jcn says
I’m entering on the rafflecopter under my Facebook username (Mary Happymommy).
My kids are encouraged to have healthy hygiene habits by picking out their own toothbrushes and toothpaste. Their dentist is also instrumental in encouraging brushing/flossing.
Krystal R says
I encouraged good grooming habits when my son was younger by allowing him to pick out his products. He’s grown now and has great grooming!
Nancy Rodriguez says
What a great selection!
Jeffrey says
It should just be part of the daily routine. When you get up you brush your teeth, then you get dressed. Start good habits as habits
Melissa says
I am lucky that my daughter loves to brush. She has multiple tooth brushes and toothpastes to pick each night so it keeps things fun for her.
jill e says
Set a good example of brushing after meals and flossing. Trips to the dentist no matter what
Linda says
My tip is to start early on getting them to brush their teeth every day.
Soha Molina says
I choose toothpaste they like to encourage them.
Kim Ripley says
We brush our teeth immediately after breakfast. For our evening brushing we floss too.
Melissa T says
I lead by example, that works about 80% of the time, the other 20% I have to resort to games and music lol fun times make good habits
Jessica C. says
brush often and drink clear liquids
Jeremy says
Brushing and flossing after every meal saves lots of money! That money can go toward toys!
Dezi A says
make sure they see you do it too. We all brush and floss together then it’s not a big deal.
Shannon B says
Have fun toothbrushes.
Dezi A says
By the way, the “tweet” button has a tweet on it for a different giveaway…
Marilyn Wons says
My tip is to put the money saved from cavitiy costs toward a family vacation!
Wanda McHenry says
My tip is to make it an everyday routine that they automatically take care of their teeth & gums.
Jessie C. says
DDs are always happy to pick up their own brushes and flavored toothpastes. This is one tip I encourage them to engage in healthy oral care habits.
Julie Cutshaw says
well i think kids are the hardest ones to keep up with teeth care, my little grandson is so hard to convience unlike my daughter was, girls are more into there looks so she did great with hers but on my grandson I keep him his own little station by the sink of all his own trial size teeth products so he does good, hes here every weekday morining so having his own things helps
thanks
sewitupjulie@gmail.com
Elena says
My tip is to brush your teeth together with kids. It’s makes teeth brushing more fun and engaging for them
nickie says
do it with them, modeling is a great way to learn.
Amanda Sakovitz says
I encourage my family by always flossing and stressing the importance of brushing twice a day. No one likes going to the dentist 🙂
Amy says
Just reminding them to brush is half the battle. Also, a fun rinse cup always helps!
Christy says
Everybody picks out their own toothbrush and toothpaste. My daughter has 4 different toothbrushes but it get her to brush her teeth.
Theresa Jenkins says
when the grandkids are here ,we brush together
stephen wenner says
brush your teeth with them. make sure to give your kids a step stool so they are tall enough to reach the sink and I always let my kids pick out a fun toothbrush..
Leanne M says
I let them have their turn at brushing and then I get a turn to brush for them
Crystal Warren says
One way I got my kids to brush longer when they were little was to teach them to hum the Spongebob song while brushing and when they’d finished the song they had brushed long enough…they’re 10, 13 and 15 and I still hear the song humming nightly!
lisa lo says
use flavored toothpaste.
Eileen says
My best tip is to let your kids know how lucky they are to have good dental care and the products available today to ensure their teeth are healthy and their smile is beautiful! I tell them my story, of growing up in very large family with little dental care, no flouride, and nothing so great as whitening or spacers, braces and veneers, crowns, bridges and even root canals we needed so much but could not afford. My smile is terrible and a source of embarassment…that is enough to get them to brush and appreciate what control they have over their dental health simply by cleaning, brushing, and flossing!
debbie says
I used to brush my teeth at the same time so they knew how long they needed to do it.
annette campbell says
I always have fun toothbrushes and cool toothpaste for the kids
Kristie says
Try to make it fun for the kids…maybe some fun toothbrushes 🙂
Stephanie Olmsted says
Letting them pick their tooth brushes and tooth paste. Helping them brush
linda brooks says
My teeth are relly bad, so all I have to do is remind them of mommys teeth and they have no problem taking care of there own mouth.
Charlotte Rodriguez says
Have older siblings encourage good dental health. This actually works in my house since we have kids ranging in age 24-3.
BusyWorkingMama says
We use fun flavors and keep plenty of floss, rinse and toothpaste on hand.
tamra childers says
lead by example and brush with them
Rachel Miller says
Letting them pick their own toothbrush & toothpaste flavors helps 🙂
Jingle says
Choose a dentist that your family enjoys. This has made all the difference for us!
Sandy Brown says
I just remind them every day to brush.
latanya says
do it together as a family
Stephanie says
i make them floss everyday!
edq143 says
my boys would benefit from this greatly
April says
The mouthwash that turns your mouth blue, my twins love it!
Harmony B says
have fun with it. and explain why its so important
Kristen m says
My best tip is to have the supplies you need at the ready so there are no excuses!
Cynthia C says
I encourage daily flossing and rinsing.
addrienne mertens says
get a timer and show kids how to set it.
linda r says
I have kids that want to pick out their own toothbrushes and they get new ones when the bristles wear down. They also like to turn their teeth different colors to show where they missed. We have contests to see who gets these least amount of color!
TawndaM says
a nifty toothbrush is great… but if they don’t like the taste of the paste & rinse, they still won’t want to use them… 😉 Try different flavors!
NJJ says
They pick out their own spin brush and get to decorate it how they want
Kristy Thiel says
definitely everyone brushing together!
alicia wallace says
Make brushing part of the daily habits
Andrea Kruse says
We make picking out toothbrushes a fun event! The kids now how ones that light up or spin and they look forward to brushing.
andrea.kruse at gmail dot com
Susan Ladd says
Making sure mine family brush there teeth after each meal and got to the dentist. Also, make sure they get new toothbursh each month. I want to thank you for this awesome sweep and hope to win 🙂
Amy Zachek says
My best tip for oral health is to have kids listen to a song when they brush. It works great!
Deborah Stinson says
I always remind them to brush and floss. My daughter turned out to be a dental assistant so I guess the reminders helped.
Ellen B says
I would alway let the kids pick out their own toothbrush
Mary Calabrese says
My tip is to remind my stepson that brushing his teeth is not optional.
Eileen says
I set an egg timer for 2 minutes so the kids know how long to brush for.
Sarah Hirsch says
everyone has to brush their teeth after they wake up and before they go to bed!
tess says
letting the kids chart it with stickers
tcogbill at live dot com
Peter G says
I take the kids and let them pick out the tooth brush and tooth paste. I point out the one that the dentist said was the best and give them the choice.
Jackie says
My best tip: buy toothpaste (and flavor) that they like. I also let my daughters choose the mouthwash that they like.
Thanks!
tracey byram says
I remind them that most of my family has dentures.
naturegirl20 says
My family knows that brushing their teeth after eating is a great way to prevent cavities and visits to the dentist.
crystle tellerday says
buy fun products to clean our teeth
randio says
My granddaughter has her own tootpaste & battery toothbrush & loves to brush her teeth with grandma.
Angela J says
Start regular check ups at the dentist early
Robert F says
We let our daughter pick out her own toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash flavors so she is exited to brush her teeth.
Linda Kish says
I always let my son choose his own products so he had things he would want to use.
lkish77123 at gmail dot com
kathy says
My kids get really good rewards for a greaat dental checkup~
Patricia Treskovich says
I remind everyone that cavities are not fun
Audra Weathers says
My best tip is to find a dentist that is wonderful with kids and eliminate much of the fear associated with dental appointments. Also I like finding dental products geared towards children that make the daily brushing routine fun.
Audra Weathers says
daily tweet: https://twitter.com/#!/SnowflakeDay/statuses/179310602727079937
Amy S says
I make sure my son brushes in the morning and before bed.
Debra Hall says
they must brush at least 3 times a day
Lori Hart says
Lead by example and make it more fun and not a chore
Happi Shopr says
Leading by example is the best way
Leigh says
We use a timer or let them play a song on the ipod while brushing.
rebecca w says
We just make it a habit…the more you do it, I just becomes natural to do.
jill e says
https://twitter.com/#!/jkebeans/status/179339422007967745
Here is the correct URL for my tweet… Thanks for the update
carol s. says
Complement them on what beautiful teeth they have as you see them brushing or flossing.
John Stetson says
Brushing at the same time as they do so you can show them how long it should take.
lkarambo says
we dry brush our teeth as we watch TV after dinner
Jacob says
We got the mouthwash that shows the plaque on your teeth – it makes a fun game out of trying to have the least! Kids love it!
courtney b says
do it together, set a timer and make it fun! buy fun toothbrushes with popular characters they like
Jacob LaFountaine says
Electric toothbrush that turns off after 2 minutes of being on
patricia skinner says
My best tip is to get toothbrushes in the colors your children love and lead by example.
amberlyn Johnson says
brush and floss daily
Tina M says
I let my kids pick the toothbrushes and tooth brush they want
Meaghan F. says
We just know we have to do it and we need to, we try to encourage flossing by using picks because it makes it easier for everyone. Miss_slytherin[at]live[dot]com
Nelly Rodriguez says
Just remind them to floss every day!
Catie says
I think leading by example is the best answer! However, the mouthwash that turns your teeth blue is a way to make brushing teeth fun.
Becky M says
I don’t have to do much encouraging… my little guys love to brush their teeth!
Jason Crooks says
We went with electric toothbrushes that vibrate every 30 seconds to keep it timed and easy. We also brush as a family and tend to take turns picking a song to hum each night.
tracy davis says
we have cleanings every 6 months
kim says
I buy the kids the fun spin brushes with the characters on them and the good tasting toothpaste
Nicole says
Motivating them with the floss sticks that taste like bubble gum. And they regularly see my husband and I take care of our teeth!
Ruthi aka abitosunshine says
Best tip #1: Set the example to be followed. Tip #2: Get a new toothbrush regularly.
ruthcox at abitosunshine dot net
Michelle C says
Santa and the Easter Bunny always leave new toothbrushes and tooth pastes along with other treats. Thanks for the chance to win!
mrsmchappell at gmail dot com
Kathleen Downes says
I let my son brush his teeth first then I brush them too.
Jose Soto says
I always buy the toothpaste i know they will love.(and make sure it safe to swallow)
Jay Dee says
My tip: always have toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash available to use.
Stephanie - DIY&Craft Giveaway Blog says
writing reminders on the mirror with dry erase markers!
Chi says
Leading by example 🙂 And regular dental checkups. When they go well, that encourages the kids to keep brushing regularly 🙂
Cindy Merrill says
I make sure my Grandkids have new toothbrushes every couple of months- it’s important, because worn out toothbrushes are not as effective.
Rebecca Shockley says
My kids don’t mind doing the recommended hygiene, but if they complain, I show them photo’s on the internet of what could happen if they get lazy
Joy Ann says
My best tip was when they were little, I would brush their teeth, and say everything they ate. ” I see fries, oh there’s some cookie right there” They loved to see if I could “see” everything they ate!
Leann Lindeman says
I think flossing is the most important way to a healthy mouth!
Amanda Starr says
I try to always have a song my daughter likes for her to listen to while brushing so it doesn’t seem as long
Lauren Garrett says
We buy fun tooth brushes!
Monique Rizzo says
Show them by example. My family sees me brush, floss etc. and it makes them want to.
Thanks for the chance.
mogrill12@gmail.com
Stacey B says
I make tooth brushing exciting by having cool tooth brushes & tooth paste tubes with characters he likes!
Rosanne says
Make it fun I always sing a song while they are burshing
Kelly says
I teach them to brush their teeth several times a day, and to floss & gargle with Listorine. They understand what can happen if you don’t take good care of your teeth. Preventative care cand help so much.
Denise B. says
I just tell them to go in the bathroom and brush their teeth, and they do.
Linda Stewart says
We ALL brush at the same time and we see who can brush the longest.
Cori Westphal says
I’m totally honest with my kids about the cost of dental care, and the fact that we don’t have insurance. Good dental hygiene is a must in our house, and everyone knows it!
coriwestphal at msn dot com
Theresa Shafer says
Do by example, brush together. Show how much fun it can be. Let this be a bonding time.
Denise S says
My kids like picking new toothbrushes and trying them out.
lisa brown says
Make brushing fun and not rushed. Use great tasting, flavored toothpaste that everyone will like, and use fun, colorful toothbrushes.
lisa brown says
RSS feed via My Yahoo Reader jslbrown_03 at yahoo dot com
Linda Lansford says
I provide the products
Dawn Valentine says
I always bought them fun toothbrushes that they wanted. I also let them pick out their own toothpaste and mouthwash (providing they weren’t full of sugar)
Ashley Hatten says
i let my kids pick out their own toothbrushes it encourages them to brush! thanks!
Carol says
I try to set an excellent example by brushing and flossing a lot each day. I also allow them to pick out the toothpaste they like best.
Wendy T says
I have to leave son’s toothbrush where he can’t miss it … still as a teen. Hmmph!
simplydab says
I invested in a Sonicare, it was worth the money I saved in dentist bills!
Debra F says
We set good examples for our children by practicing good oral hygiene ourselves, and we always make sure that regular dentist visits are a priority.
Jennifer T. says
My only tip is to use those light-up electric toothbrushes. My daughter seemed to brush longer when she uses those “fancy” toothbrushes.
jtmagmom73(at)gmail(dot)com
Heather S says
encourage flossing
Marci says
Constancy in brushing every day!
Tabathia B says
I love buying fun electric toothbrushes and mouthwash and have a twooth timer
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Rita M says
Lead by example… we both brush twice daily, floss & have regular check-ups – I believe that when something is really important, setting a good example is the most effective way to pass it on – children do take note!.
Jennifer Haile says
I tell them to brush after every meal or chew xylitol gum if they can’t brush at the time.
Brenda Gaines says
floss everyday, and always use a rinse like listerine or act
Jen says
my son and I brush together, that way i can supervise and make sure he brushes long enough, we like to set a timer.
jennifer.lleras@gmail.com
Kathryn C. says
My best tip is telling my children that a healthy mouth leads to less frequent trips to the dentist. Of course, my children love going to the dentist so they can play in their playroom and watch videos. LOL. Thanks for the giveaway!
katbirdfl (at) gmail (dot) com
Harold D says
Get in a routine, and reward the kids for a clean check up
Ellie W says
My boys brush their teeth to music. They brush throughout one whole song so I know they are brushing long enough.
Brad says
We got electric toothbrushes for the kids, and now they love to brush their teeth.
Joy F says
I buy new toothbrushes every few months.
SHAYNA says
MAKE IT A PART OF YOUR DAILY ROUTINE RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING..
shebebes@yahoo.com
MIchelle Fosnaugh says
Lead by example! I always made sure my babies brushed their teeth the same time as I did so they seen that I did it too!
Christina says
My best tip for getting kids excited about brushing, which gives them good oral habits for life, is to let them pick out their own stuff – cup, toothbrush, floss, paste.
Jessica Vaughan Gengler says
I make sure we brush well twice a day and use an electric toothbrush.
Claudia says
Model toothbrush and flossing
Cheri Anne says
I show the horrors of what can happen to your mouth from bad habits such as inflamed gums and discuss the pain involved.
J Ellard says
teach them young and they will never forget it.
Carol Bryant says
Regular dental checkups and remind kids often to bush and floss
Crystal F says
I don’t really have any tips, I just try to make it fun for them. I get a toothbrush that they enjoy and character toothpaste and mouth wash. They also like to use the kids flossers. Thank you!
ky2here says
Nothing beats leading by example. gotta show them how it’s done.
Glenn Peterson says
Good teeth with last you a lifetime. Hope to live forever!
Jennifer Marie says
Routine! Brushing every morning and every morning helps my little ones remember.
Susan Chester says
My best tip is to nag and remind to brush and floss when the kids are young.
Karen R says
Best tip is to use a timer so the kids know how long to brush and buy the toothpaste flavor they like.
s riches says
We have new toothbrush day every other month.
Cheryl Free says
Leading by example and making it part of a regular routine ヅ *Thanks* for the giveaway!
Kyl Neusch says
show by example
Carolyn G says
My best tip is to have the dentist give them a little chat about the dangers of nothaving good oral health.
Bridget Hopper says
Play some music while brushing
Allison Downes says
I always like to have fun or cute looking toothbrushes
Cory says
Just making sure we all brush our teeth morning and evening and as much as we can after lunch.
Nadine L says
Besides leading by example and explaining the reasons she needed to brush, to a 3 or 4 year old, that didn’t make a big impact. So we started a “reward” system. If she brushed her teeth every tie she was suppose to, at the end of the week she got to go to the ice cream parlor or McDonald’s for a Happy Meal. That stuck with her. After a while it was just automatic.
joni says
I make sure I buy them cool toothbrushes and cool toothpaste.
Janna Johnson says
brush twice a day
Fab giveaway! thanks again! Janna Johnson
jannajanna@hotmail.com
janna @ feedyourpig on gfc
Nina says
Let everyone choose the items they like best.
Andrea Williams says
My son has a neat toothbrush that flashes when you push the bottom so that he knows how long to brush his teeth. We also like to use the dental sticks for flossing.
Sunshyn V says
Always have the preferred toothpaste and dental floss in the house.
Barbara Montag says
Best tip – set a good example with regular brushing and flossing.
Thank you.
Holly C. says
my best tip is to use an electric tooth brush which times 2 minutes, and they have such cute ones for children who will think brushing is fun!
Janice says
lead by example
Paula Tavernie says
I tellthem every morning and night to brush and pretty soon it will be just a normal routine!
ptavernie at yahoo dot com
wcc says
My best tip is to brush with the little ones and let them pick out their brushes. Thanks for the chance!
Marcia Goss says
Establish a routine with your kids at bedtime. Brushing and flossing before bed is so important.
Kristie says
We just remind the kids to brush their teeth often.
Becky says
My best tip is to let my kids be involved in picking out their toothbrushes, toothpaste etc. always make sure they have what they need in their bathroom, and be a good role model and make sure they see me and their dad going through our daily routines of brushing and flossing so they’ll not only remember but want to as well
Kathleen Iaci says
Make it a priority and have the whole family brush their teeth together.
Cecelia says
My best tip is start young and make a normal part of their bedtime routine. Makes it automatic.
Patti Hess says
We use an egg timer and start it and they are only allowed to stop when the sand is all gone
pattifritz2000 at yahoo dot com
thank you
Suzanne K says
set a good example and provide the right tools (new brushes, good toothpaste (that they like), good tasting mouthwash, floss) and set regular checkups starting when they are young
clynsg says
Make it a regular part of their routine.
Tina says
My best tip is make the trips to the dentist fun and not scary. Make brushing fun too.
Meredith P says
best tip is to do it together
Sonya Morris says
I let my kids pick out their oral care products and they seem to be excited when it is time to brush their teeth.
Lori S says
We started brushing our teeth at a young age so my kids don’t think it is a chore.
Thanks!
Mindy Muellenborn says
I make sure they see us brushing and flossing, also set aside time twice a day for them to do it.
Jessica H. says
Jokingly I say: Besides threatening them that their teeth are going to rot and fall out and they won’t be able to eat normal foods? lol joking of course
Like many of the other Moms I do model good brushing skills for them. I also schedule all of our cleanings together, that way they can see that Mommy has a good checkup with no cavities! Like the others that have entered, I feel it is important for them to pick toothbrushes out on a regular basis. Nothing is as cool as getting a new toothbrush!
Thank you for the giveaway!
girlygirlugh at gmail dot com
Jody Sisson says
We try and make brushing fun, like a game.
June L says
Have brushing times with the family.
D. Holder says
My kids love the electric/battery toothbrushes.
Bev says
a hourglass timer always made it fun
heatherzilla says
Encourage by setting an example. Always have the proper supplies.
Caryn S says
Let your kids choose their own toothbrushes. It will make them want to brush more
Ravzie says
I try to hold down the sugary treats.
Annmarie W. says
My kids have a timer in their bathroom, so they know the minimum they have to put into brushing & flossing.
Jennifer M. says
I just tell them if they brush their teeth good that the shine hurts my eyes. They think it’s funny when there teeth are so clean I can’t look at them.
Mari says
We brush at the same time every night to make sure we stay on schedule.
Geoff K says
We try to make brushing and flossing fun by turning it into a game – having a race to see who can finish flossing first, singing songs, etc. – so that it seems less like a chore and more like an enjoyable part of the daytime and nighttime ritual in the house. Thanks!
Daniel M says
floss every night!
Melody says
hum your favorite song while you brush
tamar says
BRUSH YOUR TEETH. Everywhere. Use a small baby brush to get to harder to access crevices.
mindy says
it is not just your teeth but gums tongue and all mouth areas that need to be addressed
Debbie Hogue says
I always tell my kids to brush their teeth for two minutes, Floss and use Pro-Health Oral rinse and Always use soIft toothbrushes
brittney says
we play a song while we brush
brittneydejajason at gmail dot com
Erica C. says
The kids like brushing their teeth as long as they get to pick out their own toothbrush.
Sylvie W says
I’m not subtle. I just straight out tell them I don’t want to smell bad breath and don’t wont to be the dentist’s best customer because of poor oral hygiene. I also tell them the story of my grandfather who never wanted to go to the dentist but would yank his bad teeth out with pliers when they were giving him problems.
Chastidy says
I let my boys brush their teeth first and then I brush after them 🙂
Deanna G. says
We make sure brushing and flossing are part of our daily routine.
Debbie C says
The musical toothbrushes were a big help with children.
chrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com
Brittney House says
see a dentist often
ferriz says
just one cavity is normally encouragement enough. 😉
ferriza2(at)yahoo(dot)com
April V. says
Do it together and make it a game!
Julie Grimberg says
do it together as a family
Douglas Houston says
Buy toothpaste flavors the kids like.
Aubrey says
i have them brush two times or more a day
gina says
My 15 month old loves to brush his own teeth, so I help, but also encourage him to do it on his own.
Lindley A says
We use musical toothbrushes for our kids to have fun while brushing (and dancing!)
Amanda G. says
I try to be a good example for my kids, and I also buy them mouthwash, toothbrushes, and toothpaste in fun colors/flavors. A timer helps them brush long enough. Rewarding a good report from the dentist is also a way to encourage them.
Larry says
I compliment the kids on how much better they look!!
Jill L says
I don’t yell and scream for them to do it. They see me doing brushing my teeth and it seems to be enough for them to want to take care of their teeth.
Rebecca Peters says
brush 2 times a day before school and bed!
Shirley Hicks says
I let mine pick their own flavor of rinse and toothpaste..other than that……….i give them reminders..daily!
Tiffany Hearn says
I encourage my kids by letting them picking out their toothbrushes and toothpaste at the store. Thanks for the awesome giveaway!
kathy pease says
what works for me is to tell them they will end up like their father who has dentures.
also i keep lots of toothpaste,mouthwash and floss stocked in the bathroom at all times
Valerie Taylor Mabrey says
brush your teeth and do not drink juice before bed
vmkids3 at msn dot com
Sandytee says
Some challenge, but a great idea to get kids and family into good dental habits.
Amber Carter says
I let my son play with his toothbrush a bit-he’s 20 months old
Angela W says
The best tip for my daughter is for her to sing a song when she is brushing her teeth so she brushes them for the recommended amount of time, thanks for the chance
Jessica says
Switching to a battery operated toothbrush was a great move-every time I brush I feel like I went to the dentist
Jennifer Wery says
Would love to win—-my boys always love going to the dentist because they have no cavities due to good brushing
Kelly Britton says
Teach them how to brush and floss correctly.
Jimmy says
Keeping a consistent routine of brushing, flossing, and mouth wash
Sandra K321 says
I give my kdis the Oral B vibrating brushes to use. It makes it a little more interesting. I also use the picks instead of the regular floss so it is easier.
stephanie long says
I let my kids use kid-friendly mouthwash. THey think it’s so much fun that they can’t WAIT to brush their teeth just so they can use the special rinse!
misty sunrise says
I always buy them the flavors they like. It encourages them to brush more
itsjustme62613 at gmail.com
Jammie says
best tip is to lead, most the time if our children see us doing something daily they will as well.
Liz says
Start good oral health habits young so that it just becomes second nature to them. And parents should set a good example!
Nicole Larsen says
I make sure we all go to the dentist every 6 months. I also help my 4 yr old daughter brush every night and make sure I explain why it’s so important!
Christina Sparks says
My talking them to the dentist every 6 months and having the dentist show the kids what their teeth could look like if they don’t brush their teeth.
Andrea Henry says
show them pictures of tragic teeth….in jars…
julie hawkins says
We make it fun to brush our teeth by dancing and singing as we brush our teeth
Jennifer R says
I think the best tip is to be a role model for my kids. I brush with them.
reejen5 at gmail dot com
tallcapp says
Nag your kids so that they brush their teeth with you morning and evening. Keep the sugar intake low.
Huston Smith says
We all brush our teeth together to promote togetherness and health at the same time.
Danielle says
We make sure that we brush and floss in the morning and evenings every day
Russell Moore says
For the kids, (now, grandkids) Insist, then Inspect.
Gloria S says
Brush your teeth before going to bed
Claire says
We all brush our teeth at the same time, while rocking out to a song – it makes it fun instead of a chore!
Ross Hassel says
I tell my son about my issues to deter him.
joel.sternenberg says
yes give to me
Pauline M says
Honestly, it’s a bit of a battle with my kids…. every night it’s towel, teeth, and bed! I’ve just made it a habit with them!
Sheila K. says
A timer and music help the tooth brushing ritual fly by.
Wendy says
Honestly, I have fought tooth and nail (haha!) with my daughter to get her to brush her teeth. I used to tell the dentists that I would need to duct tape her to the floor to get her to brush her teeth regularly. Nothing has ever worked, nothing. When she was younger we did timers, purple tablets to show where you haven’t brushed, rewards, punishments, you name it. With some kids, all the tips and tricks in the world just don’t work I suppose.
Melanie says
My best tip is to remind them a lot (nag, nag, nag) and make sure every person in the family has their own toothpaste. It’s amazing what a difference that makes.
Colleen Busch says
Making it a fun routine and allowing the entire family to be invovled.
Barb Myers says
You need to lead by example, and have good oral care habits yourself. Also, having a set routine helps.
joseph gersch jr says
let kids buy their own toothbrushes
carol says
disposable toothbrushes for after lunch.
Desiree Dunbar says
I make sure they floss every night before bed.
Julie says
I always made it fun like letting them choose toothbrushes and tooth paste thanks
amy deeter says
definatly to lead by example
amy16323(at)gmail(dot)com
gala says
brush together with your kids
Lisa Garner says
My tip is brush with my children. It keeps them brushing longer.
KDailey says
I have a tooth brushing app that shows my daughter how, when, and where to brush her teeth. I am also a couponer so I have a big bucket of oral care goodies. Whenever someone needs a new toothbrush or a new toothpaste they get to choose from the stash.
Melanie says
As long as Im doing it they love to do it too!
mary gardner says
my kids use a cute sponge bob timer to time how long they brush and they love it
marygardner49 at aol dot com
R Hicks says
just show them reminder photos of people who don’t brush and what happens to their teeth!
brich22 at earthlink dot net
R Hicks says
subscribe via email using ardy22 at earthlink do net
brich22 at earthlink dot net
jules m. says
those scary pics like they have at the dentist seem to work. or else i show her Little Shop of Horrors.
McKim says
Make it a habit – brushing the same time each day, so it becomes routine.
Tonya Dean says
Try to make it fun and consistent.
tdlsfm(at)gmail(dot)com
Doug D. says
Keep the toothbrushes out in a container on the counter. Remind them daily to brush their teeth.
Tami Boswell says
Make brushing FUN. Hold mini contests as to who can brush the best each night. Give cute stickers and such.
amy delong says
we also do the timer and i brush with them
ardelong2(at)gmail(dot)com
Christy Weller says
My best tip is to make it fun. My daughter has a timer she uses while brushing her teeth. She watches it count down while she’s brushing. Then toward the end she likes to shout 3.2.1. all done.. So, far this has been working great for us, she cant wait to brush her teeth.
cweller75@gmail.com
Carrie says
We brush together
Jessica Rose says
Simply brush your teeth! That’s the best tip!
Barbara Hunt says
Thanks for the great contest!
bahjeep@aol.com
Ann Council says
i ALWAYS LET THEM WATCH ME BRUSH AND THEY fOLLOWED.
june pentycofe says
$100 at wal mart wow I go there all the time.
laurie says
i have always showed my kids teeth of people who didnt brush and take care of their teeth and that makes them want to brush
Kathy Hanley says
The best thing that I did was to buy my daughter a rechargeable Oral-B Toothbrush. She now brushes her teeth twice a day and they are sparkling clean!
Joanne Babey says
Brush & floss at least twice a day
Briann Neeley says
i try and make brushing fun! So my 3 yr old got a princess toothbrush that has a timer that lights up, so i brush her teeth then she gets to brush
Jaclyn Reynolds says
I sing a song to my kids while they brush 🙂
Chase says
Brush twice a day
Kendra Gillilan says
let them in on picking supplies
Kelsey says
I make sure I buy colorful themed toothbrushes and have them readily available in the bathroom.
Thanks
shopditzydiva@yahoo dot com
Virginia Rowell says
Well, definitely flossing!
carol lewis says
Brushing, flossing and avoiding sugar. It coats your teeth.
Samantha says
My tip is to brush in sections so every tooth is brushed fully. You end up taking longer to brush your teeth this way.
Ashley Hughes says
We just make a routine of teeth brushing. Our daughter loves when we all brush our teeth at her bedtime.
sarah u says
having a toothbrush for everyone in each bathroom
meme says
I make sure to always have the dental supplies the kids like. They get to pick out their own toothbrushes,flossers,paste and rinse that they like and we have a chart where they get stickers for every day they bruch their teeth in the morning and bedtime
r. paris says
i make sure they all go to the dentist regularly.
Sand says
We brush and floss twice daily.
AEKZ2 says
My best tip is to let them know that you like to brush your teeth. Healthy teeth equals less dental visits.
Angela Cash says
We make a game out of “inspections” before bedtime – clean teeth, hands, bellybuttons, etc!
Angela Cash says
Tweet! https://twitter.com/#!/angevege/status/182664243651416064
Betty Curran says
Brushing and flossing right along with my children encouraged them. The attractive and personalized tools available make it even more fun.
crystal allen says
we have an incentive chart and the kids get points for brusing twice a day thanks
brian e. says
Thanks for the giveaway…we have been reinforcing healthy oral care habits since our kids were very young; we “remind” the kids to brush after every meal & brush / floss before bedtime.
senorpiero [at] yahoo [dot] com
shirley pebbles says
Show by example. We take great care of our teeth and our little ones follow suit.
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twitter, gfc, stumble/ daveshir2005
google +/ shirley pebbles
DanV says
We encourage it by making it part of our routine
heather c says
Reward kids with stickers or stars for each teeth-brushing session, which they can trade in for awesome activities!
Tim Moss says
Definitely brush your teeth daily.
Gianna says
To do it yourself and have them watch. My kids are monkey see monkey do at this stage.
Michelle Tucker says
I just encourage my foster daughter and remind her that it keeps her mouth healthy when she does it.
sara wood says
I actually told convinced my kids that bugs will live in their mouth if they don’t clean their teeth! Now they brush,floss and rinse multiple times a day without me having to remind them.
Lauren Ayer says
Brush your teeth to your favorite song… when the song ends your done! Thank you for the awesome giveaway!
teressa oliver says
Use the brushes that play music for the timing
Amanda Starr says
https://twitter.com/#!/AStarrAMama/status/182906414233161729
dv8 says
I don’t have kids yet but I brush and floss often.