Toys are a huge part of children’s childhoods. They allow them to use their imagination as well as mimic adult life. So, why not include dental toys in your little one’s play? Nowadays, a new game, doll, or gadget is just a click away and can benefit your child’s oral health immensely. Read on from your pediatric dentist in Buffalo grove about how dental toys can keep your child’s smile healthy and some great dental toys on the market!
How Are Dental Toys Helpful for Young Children?
Generally, toys are fun for children to play with but dental toys can also accomplish other goals.
They are a great way to introduce the importance of their teeth and how to care for them. This establishes a life-long habit of oral hygiene. Additionally, it gives the opportunity for a child to grow comfortable with dental visits. They can play with a toy that has instruments their pediatric dentist uses in the office. Time to “play dentist”! By building familiarity with tools that their dentist will likely utilize to tend to their smile–such as dental mirrors, toothbrushes, and dental scalers– will help your child feel more at ease and prepared during their visits.
And last, but not least, it will build a sense of fun regarding their dental health. Keeping their grin healthy all throughout their life is essential and investing in dental toys is a wonderful foundation for that!
Awesome Dental Toys for Your Little One
Now it’s time for the fun! While a quick Google or Amazon search for dental toys is right at your fingertips, here are some immediate suggestions:
Crocodile Dentist
This dental game will engage your little one while teaching them about the issues their teeth can face if they are not cared for properly. The crocodile head has a wide-open mouth and full arches of teeth. If you press on a “bad tooth” (hello, tooth decay!), the animal closes its mouth, and you are out of the game! This is a great conversational starter about dental health and how your pearly whites can get cavities if an oral hygiene routine is neglected. For extra fun, your child can even teach the crocodile how to care for its teeth by pretend brushing and flossing his teeth!
Chatter Teeth and Extra-Large Toothbrush
Remember how fun those wind-up chatter teeth were? Well, they still are! This will add an element of fun as they get the teeth to chatter. You can use it as a demonstration about all the different types of teeth your child has…and even teach them about their gums. According to the CDC, 57% of children between the ages of 12 and 19 have at least one cavity and about 50% of children have some stage of gum disease. By teaching your child early about their oral health, you can protect them from tooth decay and gum inflammation. You can place the chatter teeth in the bathroom and let it run while your child brushes and flosses as a reminder of what you taught them.
Dentist Role Play Kit
Children love playsets where they can mimic adults. This kit comes with all the dentist’s tools so they can “play dentist”. This will also familiarize them with what they will see during their checkups and cleanings so it will help them to be more comfortable.
You want your little one to thrive, and that includes their smile! By allowing them to play with dental toys, you will build good oral hygiene and an appreciation for their pearly whites that will hopefully last for years!
About the Practice
Capezio Loiben Pediatric Dentistry is eager to help keep your child’s smile whole and healthy through the expertise of its two dentists. They offer a full range of pediatric dental services, including preventive and emergency care. By establishing meaningful relationships with the child and parent and using personalized plans, your child’s dental experience will be comfortable while keeping their oral health in top condition. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (847) 459-9100.