Simple Tips To Make Toothbrushing Fun For Your Child

Teaching your child to brush their teeth is a crucial step in instilling lifelong healthy habits. After the long months of teething pain, that moment when your baby’s first little tooth breaks through can feel like a delightful milestone. But with that tiny tooth comes the responsibility to keep it clean and healthy. Unfortunately, for many parents, turning tooth brushing into a twice-daily event can feel more like a wrestle than a routine. The good news? There are plenty of enjoyable ways to make brushing fun for both you and your child, transforming what could be a chore into a cherished part of your day together.

Start Young

According to Dr. Claire Stevens, a consultant in pediatric dentistry, the best way to cultivate good oral hygiene habits is to start brushing as soon as that first little tooth emerges. If you start while they’re still a baby and unaware of any fussiness, you’re likely to encounter much less resistance later on. If you wait until your toddler can voice their opinions, you may find yourself in a power struggle. “With one in eight three-year-olds showing some level of tooth decay, it’s never too early to start considering your child’s dental health,” Claire emphasizes.

As soon as that first tooth appears, grab a fluoride toothpaste to begin brushing. “Fluoride is a natural mineral beneficial for bones and teeth,” Claire explains. “Fluoride toothpaste can reinforce tooth enamel—that tough outer layer—and help prevent cavities from forming.” Starting this habit at a young age means safeguarding their little smiles in the long run.

Less Toothpaste is More…

When it comes to how much toothpaste to use for babies and toddlers under three, a flat smear—about the size of a grain of rice—is all you need. Claire advises, “You want enough to cover the top of the bristles, but the key is to ensure fluoride reaches their teeth to keep decay at bay.” So, look for toothpaste with at least 1,000 parts-per-million fluoride content, clearly marked on the packaging.

If possible, introduce them to minty toothpaste right from the start. Many fruit-flavored options don’t provide the adequate fluoride needed for older children, and transitioning from sweet flavors to tingly mint can become a challenging task. Brands like Aquafresh offer a great transition range: starting with their Milk Teeth formula for ages 0-2, then progressing to their mintier options for older kids. It’s a gradual journey towards excellent dental care.

Go Straight for the Brush

Don’t feel compelled to buy pre-brushing products like wipes or toothbrushes with plastic bristles; Claire insists, “There’s no substantial evidence that those are effective. Just go straight to a proper toothbrush.” For your little one, a small brush head that fits comfortably in their mouth and can easily reach the tricky spots is essential.

The best toothbrushes for kids are typically labeled with age recommendations. If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to choose one designed for younger kids, as some children have smaller mouths even for their age. Importantly, select a toothbrush that excites your child; making brushing fun is half the battle!

If you’re considering an electric toothbrush for your toddler, opt for one with an oscillating head, as it effectively removes plaque. However, Claire reassures, “An electric toothbrush isn’t a must-have. It’s certainly convenient, but you can keep your toddler’s teeth clean with a good manual brush.” Additionally, bamboo toothbrushes are eco-friendly alternatives worth considering, especially since replacing a child’s toothbrush every three months can generate significant waste over time with plastic brushes.

Be Consistent

Tooth cleaning can often trigger tears and tantrums—after all, many toddlers see it as an invasion of their personal space, and it tends to happen when they’re already tired and fussy. Plus, resisting tooth brushing is sometimes their way of asserting independence. “If your little one protests,” Claire advises, “don’t throw in the towel. Stick with brushing every single day. Even if it feels rushed or less than perfect, aim to include some brushing in their routine.”

While the goal is to brush for at least two minutes twice a day, don’t stress if that feels impossible; just do what you can. If they’re utterly worn out by bedtime, a quick 20 or 30 seconds is far better than skipping it altogether. Claire notes, “Although there are real benefits to brushing at the end of the day, you can fit in that second session anytime during the day.”

Stay relaxed and avoid making brushing into a battle. If you can approach it with a light-hearted spirit, both you and your child can make it a positive experience. If you can keep things fun and stress-free, chances are you’ll both end up smiling!

To make tooth brushing a breeze for your little one, it’s all about creating a comforting routine that they actually enjoy. Start by holding your child close. It might feel natural to keep them secure in your arms while maintaining eye contact, which can really help them feel safe. A simple tip from Claire, a pediatric dentist, is to nestle them into your arm; if you’re right-handed, try using your left hand to hold theirs while your right hand takes care of the brushing. This closeness not only eases their anxiety but allows you to connect during this crucial daily habit.

Next, make the experience relatable. Let your toddler watch you brush your own teeth. By seeing you do it first, they understand that it’s a normal and essential part of the day. Try brushing your teeth together; the synchronicity can turn into a fun game. You can even demonstrate brushing in small circles, which feels more effective and engaging than the traditional side-to-side motion.

Encouraging your child to focus on one section of their teeth at a time is another smart move. Explain that this attention to detail matters; remind them to clean each area thoroughly. A helpful way to gauge time is to sing “Happy Birthday” twice—once for their top teeth and once for the bottom. It’s catchy, and before they know it, they’ve brushed for two minutes!

As they get the hang of it, shower them with praise. Positive reinforcement is key. When they brush well, remind them how proud the dentist will be. This kind of encouragement can make a world of difference in their attitude towards oral care.

Speaking of time, consider setting a timer for that full two minutes. You can make it a fun event by saying, “Ready, steady, go!” and cheer enthusiastically when the timer rings. It transforms the process from mundane to merry, making them look forward to the next session.

For a tech-savvy twist, the free NHS-approved app, Brush DJ, can be a game-changer. It plays two minutes of music perfect for teeth brushing, and once they finish, your child gets a smiley face reward and a round of applause. The app is accessible on both Google Play and the Apple App Store, effectively turning tooth brushing time into a mini celebration.

Dr. Claire Stevens, a consultant in pediatric dentistry, emphasizes that many children find brushing to be a dull chore. To combat this, you can make the experience entertaining. Incorporate songs, games, or even playful interactions like kisses and gentle tickles while brushing. Claire suggests using the “Hey Duggee” tooth brushing song, as many kids resonate with familiar characters and are likely to imitate their brushing habits.

If your child resists standing at the sink, that’s perfectly fine. Let them brush their teeth wherever they feel at ease, whether that’s in the bath or lounging on the floor. The goal is to create a positive association with tooth brushing.

Meet your expert, Dr. Claire Stevens CBE. As a consultant in pediatric dentistry based at the University Dental Hospital of Manchester, she brings significant expertise in the field. Dr. Stevens graduated from Bristol Dental Hospital in 2000 and has since dedicated her career to caring for young patients, ensuring their dental experiences are positive and successful.

Emily Gilbert, the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother & Baby, blends professional knowledge with personal experience as a first-time mom. Emily has an extensive career in journalism, focusing on pregnancy, parenting, and product reviews. Her insights not only aim to inform but also connect with readers to show them that while parenting can be demanding, it also holds plenty of delightful surprises and adventures.