4 No-Fail Hacks to Get Kids to Love Brushing

Getting your kids to brush every day can be a struggle — especially when they’re very young. But it’s worth starting off on the right foot, not just for their dental health but their overall health, too. Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases among children ages 6-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And it’s largely preventable.

Here are a few tricks to take out the struggle and make brushing fun for kids.

Teach by Doing

One of the most important things you can do is to lead by example. Show your kids how to brush by doing it yourself. Be sure to do it with them — not later, when you go to bed. This will demonstrate proper brushing techniques. More importantly, it will teach kids to prioritize it. When mom and dad do it, they will want to do it too.

Make Brushing Fun

Rather than being something they “have to do or else,” turn tooth brushing into a game. Hunt for sugar bugs hiding in their teeth, pretend to brush their favorite stuffed toy’s teeth, use a puppet to talk about brushing — whatever puts a smile on their face and gets them engaged. Play a favorite song and have your child hum along. You could also set a timer on your phone that uses a sound effect kids love, like ringing bells or the sound of a favorite cartoon character.

Make Toothbrushes Fun

One of the best ways to encourage brushing is to get a fun toothbrush. Let them pick it out — maybe in their favorite color or with a favorite character on it. When selecting a toothbrush, don’t forget to choose the softest brush option. Monitor how hard your child brushes their teeth. Pressure should be much like brushing your own teeth — don’t overdo it.

Your child might also enjoy picking out a toothpaste flavor they love. It matters to kids when they get a say, and they’ll look forward to it more.

Offer Rewards

Think about what motivates your child. Are they wild about stickers, would they love an extra 10 minutes of bedtime stories, or a new book or toy? Find a reward that works for you — just try not to make it a sugary treat. After all, we want cavity-free teeth! You also can create a reward chart for your child to track their progress, stay motivated, and work toward something special.

Don’t Forget to Teach Brushing Safety

Running around the house with a toothbrush in your mouth is a great way to tempt fate. Don’t end up in the emergency room or dental office with a serious situation. Teach your kids to brush calmly and safely, where toothbrushing belongs — in the bathroom.

Take It Easy

Remember that most parents struggle with getting their kids to brush their teeth. And we are here to help! You can always schedule an appointment with your Cincinnati dentist to talk with your child about toothbrushing. Good habits start early, and the benefits can last a lifetime.