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Toothpaste Phobia, It’s a Real Thing!

Are you scared to brush your teeth? You are not alone, toothpaste phobia is a real thing and many people are afraid to brush their teeth. Toothpaste phobia is especially high amongst young children with sensitive taste buds and teeth. South Charlotte Dentistry wants to help you better understand the fear and provide tips for coping with the disorder. 

Sometimes, children have a hard time gaining interest in brushing their teeth. As a kid, they would much rather continue playing than have to brush their teeth. This lack of interest can cause them to act scared and they are simple not interested. To encourage children to brush their teeth it is essential to make it fun, turn it in to a game, distract them, really whatever makes them do it. There are many unique toothbrushes that can help a child actually enjoy brushing their teeth. If this doesn’t work, get creative. Brush the child’s teeth while their minds are occupied. Maybe while they are watching TV, reading, or even bathing. 

The taste! That’s a big one! Children often have very sensitive taste buds and can be rather picky when it come to the way things taste. Many children dislike mint flavored toothpaste. They may complaint that it is “too hot.” Try using a very simple toothpaste with a fruit flavor. If this doesn’t help, go toothpaste free. You actually don’t need toothpaste for brushing to be effective. Toothpaste is just the cherry on top. It doesn’t actually clean your teeth, it just make your breath fresher and there may be some whitening perks. Brushing without toothpaste will still help remove the plaque.

Finally, many children have very sensitive mouths. When brushing it may cause the child to gag. This make brushing their teeth very unpleasant. To help with this we recommend using a small toothbrush and breathing through the nose. 

If you or your child have a phobia of toothpaste or brushing your teeth we would love to speak with you about ways that we can help. South Charlotte Dentistry can many tips for patients that experience dental anxiety. Call and schedule your appointment today.

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