11 year old and teeth...

[toothbrusher]

I don't think this is an uncommon issue but 11yo DD hardly ever brushes her teeth. I also have two toddlers to brush and work FT so while I recognise she's young, it irks me a bit having to check she's done them twice a day. I've just signed a contract for nhs braces which we're lucky to have due ti her overbite and thinking I don't know how much longer I can test the toothbrush and nag... obviously can't stop paying for her dental care but what do you have in place for poorly hygiene dd preteens?

They will bump her if they see she isn't taking care of her teeth.

I've just been berating my dc this week and telling them they absolutely have to look after their teeth as there's no dentists. None. I broke a tooth at the weekend and I couldn't get any emergency appointment until today. Five days later.

I still ask the 18 yo if he's brushed his teeth when he's home. I don't think I will ever stop asking if they've REALLY brushed their teeth. Not too hard mind, we don't want gum damage.

Not the answer you wanted obviously. Get some mouthwash and floss but there's no substitute for nagging. Show pictures of rotten teeth after braces / under braces. The orthodontist actually did this for DS - to attempt to strike the fear of God into him about what would happen if he didn't keep his teeth & brace clean. They gave special brace cleaning floss/ intradental brushes as well. Can't remember what they are called. Orthodontists are pretty firm - they scared me!

Thanks both. Yes, I'm scared of the orthodontist too. And I resent the telling off because my teeth are well cleaned! Think I'm going to have to go back to brushing them like she's a baby, which I could do without given I have an actual baby to brush teeth for 😕