What are some tricks or strategies you use to make sure your kids are taking care of their teeth? 

“Have them choose their own really cool toothbrushes (they come with songs, stickers, etc., now) and choose their own toothpaste. That has been very motivating for my kids. Worth every penny.” 

Melissa Billings, Hopewell 

“We introduced the toothbrush around 1-1.5 years with my oldest son and he doesn't give us any trouble at 3 years old. I think the earlier you introduce it, and of course display Mommy and Daddy doing it, the more it becomes a basic skill.” 

Jennifer Manzi, Pleasant Valley 

“When my kids were little and gave me a hard time, I would give them my toothbrush and let them brush my teeth while I brushed theirs. Worked for all three of mine. 
Lisa Betanzos, Plattekill 

“My twins occasionally don't want to brush their teeth. So, we either have to all brush our teeth once, or Mommy has to help brush the ‘up teeth’ then the ‘down teeth’ and then the ‘smile teeth’ and, of course, don't forget to end with the tongue.” 

Roxanne Ferber, Saugerties 

“We brush together at night. I use an electric toothbrush, so my son needs to keep up and brush the same amount of time as me.” 

Isabel Dichiara, Lagrangeville 

Dental hygienist Karen Gross, of Dr. Gina Prokosch-Cook’s Family Dentistry in New Windsor, lets then 3-year-old Victoria Perry of Wallkill play with some dental tools. “I can't put into words how great Karen is,” says Victoria’s mom, Jacqueline. “She is the reason Victoria now loves going to the dentist. She is patient, explains everything and makes it a fun and positive experience.” Visit hvparent.com for more reader pics of Hudson Valley kids at the dentist. 

Hudson Darmanin, 2.5, of Saugerties visits Seven Seas Pediatric Dentistry in Wappingers Falls.

Alexander Arvanetes of Poughkeepsie had his first dental appointment at Arlington Dental Associates in Fishkill. 

Haileyanna Hunter, 2, of Marlboro, gets a checkup at All Access Dental in Poughkeepsie.