School is back in full swing and that means School Pictures are right around the corner.  When the photographer tells your child to say cheese and smile it's always great to see those healthy teeth smiling back at you! And having healthy teeth is important!  Taking care of our children's teeth starts with us as parents helping them develop good habits at a young age.   

So How Do You Help Your Kids Take Care of Their Teeth?

Kids can take charge of their teeth by taking these steps:

• Brush at least twice a day — after breakfast and before bedtime. If you can, brush after lunch or after sweet snacks. Brushing properly breaks down plaque.
• Brush all of your teeth, not just the front ones. Spend some time on the teeth along the sides and in the back. Have your dentist show you the best way to brush to get your teeth clean without damaging your gums.
• Take your time while brushing. Spend at least 2 or 3 minutes each time you brush. If you have trouble keeping track of the time, use a timer or play a recording of a song you like to help pass the time.
• Be sure your toothbrush has soft bristles (the package will tell you if they're soft). Ask your parent to help you get a new toothbrush every 3 months. Some toothbrushes come with bristles that change color when it's time to change them.
• Learn how to floss your teeth, which is a very important way to keep them healthy. It feels weird the first few times you do it, but pretty soon you'll be a pro. Slip the dental floss between each tooth and along the gum line gently once a day. The floss gets rid of food that's hidden where your toothbrush can't get it, no matter how well you brush.
• You can also brush your tongue to help keep your breath fresh!

It's also important to visit the dentist twice a year. Besides checking for signs of cavities or gum disease, the dentist will help keep your child's teeth extra clean and can help them learn the best way to brush and floss.

And to help you and your kids have a healthy bright smile Tooth Soap is here to save the day!  You've heard me talk about this amazing product before Here and Here.  I love this product and now I want one of you to win it.  One subscriber is going to win a full set complete with Tooth Soap, Mouth Swish, and Brightener. 

How do you win?  Just email me at shaynam@macaronikid with TS in the subject line telling me to enter you.  Want to win 5 more entries?  Refer us to your friends and if they subscribe with you name as How They Heard About Us then you and your friend gets 5 extra entries! 

Good Luck!