Getting kids to brush their teeth can feel like a daily battle for many parents. The good news? With the right approach, brushing can become a fun habit that your children actually look forward to. Here's how to make it happen!
Start Early, Start Right
The best time to establish brushing habits is before your child can even hold a toothbrush. Here's the progression:
Infants (0-12 months)
- Wipe gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings
- Once teeth appear, use a soft infant toothbrush
- Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice)
Toddlers (1-3 years)
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Continue using a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste
- Let them "help" brush, but always finish for them
Preschoolers (3-6 years)
- Increase to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
- Teach them to spit (not rinse, to keep fluoride on teeth)
- Supervise and assist as needed
School Age (6+ years)
- Most children can brush independently with supervision
- Continue monitoring until around age 8-9
- Introduce flossing when teeth touch
Make It Fun: 10 Strategies That Work
1. Let Them Choose Their Supplies
Take your child shopping for their own toothbrush and toothpaste. When kids pick out supplies featuring their favorite characters or colors, they're more invested in using them.
2. Use a Timer or Song
Brushing should last two minutes—an eternity for kids! Try:
- A two-minute sand timer
- A brushing app with games and music
- Playing their favorite song
- Making up a brushing song together
3. Brush Together
Children learn by watching. Brush your teeth alongside your child and model proper technique. This also creates quality bonding time!
4. Create a Reward System
Use a sticker chart where kids earn a sticker for each successful brushing session. After a certain number of stickers, they earn a small reward (not candy!). Ideas include:
- Extra story time
- A trip to the park
- A new book
- Choice of family movie night film
5. Tell Stories
Turn brushing into story time! Create adventures about "sugar bugs" that need to be brushed away, or brave "tooth defenders" that keep teeth strong and healthy.
6. Use Technology
Many apps make brushing interactive and fun:
- Brush DJ plays music for two minutes
- Disney Magic Timer uses AR with Disney characters
- Toothsavers saves a kingdom while you brush
7. Give Them Control
Let children feel empowered by giving them choices:
- "Do you want to use the blue or green toothbrush?"
- "Should we brush your top teeth or bottom teeth first?"
- "Do you want to brush before or after putting on pajamas?"
8. Make It a Routine
Consistency is key. Brushing should happen at the same times every day—typically after breakfast and before bed. When it's part of the routine, there's less resistance.
9. Celebrate Success
Praise your child's efforts! Use specific compliments like "Great job brushing those back teeth!" or "I love how you brushed for the whole two minutes!" Positive reinforcement builds confidence and motivation.
10. Read Books About Brushing
Children's books about dental care help normalize brushing and make it feel important. Some favorites:
- "Brush Your Teeth, Please" by Leslie McGuire
- "Brush, Brush, Brush!" by Alicia Padron
- "Doctor De Soto" by William Steig
Proper Technique Matters
Even with enthusiasm, kids need guidance on proper brushing technique:
1. Angle the brush at 45 degrees toward the gum line
2. Use gentle, short strokes back and forth
3. Brush all surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces
4. Don't forget the tongue (gently brush it too!)
5. Brush for two full minutes
Handling Brushing Battles
If your child resists brushing, try these approaches:
For Toddlers:
- Make it silly—brush a stuffed animal's teeth first
- Sing songs or make funny faces in the mirror
- Give them a toothbrush to hold while you brush their teeth
For Older Kids:
- Explain WHY brushing matters (preventing cavities, keeping teeth strong)
- Show them what cavities look like (age-appropriate images)
- Let natural consequences teach (within reason—a dental visit can be motivating!)
When to Seek Help
If your child has persistent difficulty with brushing due to sensory sensitivities, special needs, or extreme anxiety, talk to us! We can provide additional strategies and accommodations to make oral care more comfortable.
Building Lifelong Habits
The habits children develop now will impact their oral health for life. By making brushing fun, consistent, and positive, you're giving your child a gift that will last forever—a healthy, confident smile!
Need more personalized tips for your child? Schedule an appointment at Hi Five Kids Dental, and we'll work together to create an oral hygiene plan that works for your family.