Gamified Oral Hygiene: Making Brushing a Competitive Sport

For most children, brushing and flossing can feel like a chore. They often try to rush through it or occasionally skip it. Kids may not love brushing their teeth, but they do love games. Our family dentists in Foley, AL, recommend gamifying that mundane task into something they look forward to doing.

Go Smart

Smart toothbrushes can utilize a reward system to make brushing your teeth a game. The incentive system typically involves virtual prizes, such as badges or trophies. They may also have a leaderboard to show who in the family is winning the game.

Some of the smart toothbrushes even offer tangible rewards. It may be something as simple as a discount on oral hygiene products. The fun ones go as far as providing gift cards if you hit key milestones.

Virtual Brushing Games

If you are struggling to get your kids to brush their teeth regularly, a mobile game might be the solution. Brush DJ has them dance while they brush to ensure they spend enough time doing it. Chomper Chums offers kids virtual rewards for brushing with the timer. They can use their rewards to “buy” animated pets that they feed and care for.

Home Rewards for Proper Brushing

If you prefer a more analog approach to gamification, consider creating a reward system at home. For example, you could design your own “cash” system. Kids receive a coupon every time they brush for two minutes, which they can trade in for a fun activity or a day off from chores.

Consider setting up a leaderboard that allows your kids to compete for prizes. The child with the best dental check-up gets to pick the game on family game night or the next weekend outing. The goal is to transform what can be somewhat boring into something exciting and fun. Give our office a call today and make an appointment to get your next dental check-up with one of ourdentists in Foley, AL.