Did you ever try letting your grandkids pick their own toothbrush or toothpaste? That seemed to help us a bit, but I'm never sure if it's enough.
I’ve worried about this exact thing for years. I did try the “pick your own” trick with my grandkids, and it worked for a week or two, but then the novelty wore off. Maybe it helps some kids longer, but mine seemed to lose interest fast. I can’t help thinking that all the chasing and nagging I did with my own kids probably made them more stubborn about brushing too.
Now, after a lifetime of dental problems (fillings, root canals—don’t get me started), I’m convinced it’s better to be cautious, even if it feels over the top. My dentist always says prevention is everything. Still, I do wonder if a gentler approach would’ve made them less anxious at the dentist later on... It’s tough to find that balance between being thorough and not turning it into a battle.
I still say—err on the side of caution. Cavities are no joke when you’re older. I wish I’d stuck with my instincts, even if it made me the “uptight” one in the family.
I can’t help thinking that all the chasing and nagging I did with my own kids probably made them more stubborn about brushing too.
You’re not alone there. I swear, the more I reminded my son to brush, the more he acted like I was asking him to climb Everest. Now, after a couple crowns and a mouth that’s worth more than my car, I get wanting to be careful. But honestly, you’re doing your best—kids are just unpredictable. Sometimes you gotta laugh and pick your battles... but yeah, I’d rather be “uptight” than pay for another root canal.
but yeah, I’d rather be “uptight” than pay for another root canal.
Honestly, I get the “pick your battles” thing, but I’m kind of the opposite. The thought of my kid needing dental work is enough to make me hover. Maybe it’s overkill, but I’d rather deal with a little whining now than risk them going through what I did as a kid. I still remember the panic before every dentist visit... not something I want to repeat with my own.
