Sarah Fernandes
Brushing Smiles: Teaching Children the Importance of Oral Hygiene Through Play
Using a plush mouth model, we introduce children to the correct way of toothbrushing in a fun, visual, and interactive manner. The hands-on demonstration helps them clearly understand how to clean every part of the mouth, even the hard-to-reach areas that are often forgotten, such as the back teeth and along the gumline. While demonstrating, we also explain in simple terms how harmful bacteria live in dental plaque and how, if not removed daily, they can cause cavities, gum problems, and even bad breath. In addition, we emphasize the importance of brushing at least twice a day, using dental floss to remove food particles between the teeth, and visiting the dentist regularly for preventive checkups. This approach makes learning about oral health more dynamic and engaging, turning a simple hygiene lesson into a positive and memorable experience. By blending playfulness with education, children not only understand what to do but also feel encouraged to adopt healthy oral care habits that will protect their smiles throughout life.
