Brush my Teeth? Why?

Name: Kids Dental Health
Fee or Free: 1.99 at time of review
Rating: 4.5 stars
Ages: 3-9


For most of us going to the dentist is just a have-to. My parents or my teachers never explained to me why brushing my teeth or a visit to the dentist was important. I just did it. This app is built to change that. Children begin by choosing an avatar who will guide them through the story. The app is part storybook, part activity center, and explains why people need to take care of their teeth. Four interactive games built into the app engage young readers and help them understand the ins and outs of dental hygiene. In the first game children move a toothbrush to catch the proper amount of falling toothpaste to brush with. Next the user moves a toothbrush to wipe out bacteria attacking the teeth followed by a game where you use dental floss to remove food. Finally children can play a matching game called Healthy Foods Game that resets each time they play.

Charming illustrations accompany the narration which is the same voice no matter which avatar the user chooses. Though the voice is pleasant, I'd like to see a boys voice accompany the male avatars. My only other constructive comment is that though the matching game is called Healthy Food Game there are unhealthy foods like ice cream, chips and chocolate included. I think children will find this confusing. Though the app does not say these foods are unhealthy, it does encourage children to eat less of them. By including them in a game called a Healthy Food Game the message being sent is that they are healthy foods. A wonderful surprise is that the book has some Easter eggs. If the child touches some of the illustrations the label of the illustration pops up and is read aloud.

All in all this is a great app to use just before a child has to visit the dentist to remind them of why we need to take care of our teeth. I give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars.