Comments on: The “loving headlock” https://thebloggingdentist.com/?p=136 A blog promoting the idea that dentists should be blogging. Also about other dental stuff. Whatever I feel like, really. Wed, 03 Apr 2019 22:50:13 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=3.9.40 By: San Andreas Dentist https://thebloggingdentist.com/?p=136#comment-43 Sat, 25 Aug 2012 20:28:22 +0000 http://thebloggingdentist.com/?p=136#comment-43 Great blog post and a great reply too!

]]> By: The Dental Warrior https://thebloggingdentist.com/?p=136#comment-42 Sat, 25 Aug 2012 13:36:07 +0000 http://thebloggingdentist.com/?p=136#comment-42 I did the exact same thing with both my kids (son and daughter). Except I didn’t have to be as forceful as your description. I didn’t have to prop their mouths open, as they did it voluntarily for me. The brushing-of-the-teeth was a twice-daily ceremony that was enjoyable for my kids. Furthermore, I contend it was another “bonding” opportunity. I changed diapers. I fed them. I bathed them. As did my wife. But, I was the dedicated tooth-brusher. I’m a hands-on dad, and I think it has already paid big dividends in terms of our relationship.

Of course, it pays dental dividends, too. Never a cavity.

I also flossed their teeth every time. In fact, as soon as the brushing was over, they’d usually say “Floss Daddy!” Also an enjoyable, bonding experience. It was never presented as a “chore.” It was a GOOD thing to do, and they knew it.

Now, they brush and floss on their own. My son even threads floss under his retainer.

Kids with mouths-full of cavities on PBS specials aren’t in that condition because they lack “access to care.” I dare say they lack “access to caring parents.” A dentist can do NOTHING to prevent the devastation of poor dietary habits and a veritable absence of hygiene. But, a PARENT CAN.

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