How to Get Kids to Brush Their Teeth: Making Healthy Habits

Posted on February 21st, 2025 | Webmaster

Helping kids learn to brush their teeth is a key step in keeping their smiles healthy for life. Starting a good brushing habit early helps prevent cavities, makes enamel stronger, and keeps their smile bright and healthy as they grow. However, many parents struggle with how to get kids to brush their teeth consistently.

By using fun and engaging techniques, parents can help make kid brushing their teeth a daily routine that feels natural rather than a chore. Below, we’ll look at the best ways to help kids brush their teeth and the right age to start this habit.

The Best Age to Teach Kids Brushing Habits

Children should start brushing on their own between ages 2 and 3 when their first baby teeth appear. At this young age, they should brush with parental guidance using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

By age 6 or 7, most kids have the coordination to brush their teeth well on their own. Even after kids start brushing on their own, parents should watch them until around age 8 or 9 to make sure they brush and floss correctly.

Since young children learn habits quickly, starting a brushing routine early helps them keep good oral hygiene for life.

Techniques to Encourage Kids to Brush Their Teeth

Getting children excited about brushing requires creativity and consistency. Here are some proven strategies to make kid brushing teeth a fun and positive experience:

1. Make It a Fun and Interactive Experience

Children are more likely to engage in brushing if it feels like an enjoyable activity rather than a chore. Try these fun ideas:

• Use a Timer or a Song: Play a two-minute song or use a brushing app with music to keep kids entertained while brushing.
• Let Them Choose Their Supplies: Allow kids to pick out a toothbrush with their favorite character and a flavored toothpaste they enjoy.
• Turn It Into a Game: Create a reward chart or use stickers to track their brushing routine and celebrate consistency.

2. Brush Together as a Family

Children learn best by watching their parents. Brushing together as a family helps make it a habit and sets a great example. Take this time to show your child the right way to brush and encourage them to join in.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise and encouragement go a long way in reinforcing good habits. Try:

• Complimenting their effort and consistency.
• Offering small rewards, like an extra bedtime story or a sticker on a reward chart.
• Using verbal reinforcement, such as “Your teeth look so shiny! Great job brushing!”

4. Teach Proper Brushing Techniques

Many children rush through brushing without covering all their teeth properly. Parents should guide them by demonstrating:

• Holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
• Use soft, circular motions to clean every part of the teeth.
• Brushing for a full two minutes, reaching the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
• Not forgetting to brush the tongue to remove bacteria.

5. Establish a Routine and Stick to It

Consistency is key to building a habit. Set a firm schedule where children brush twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. Keeping this routine consistent helps it become second nature.

6. Read Books or Watch Videos About Brushing

Kids often respond well to stories and visual aids. Books about pediatric dentistry or videos with their favorite characters brushing their teeth can inspire them to do it too.

7. Explain Why Brushing is Important

Teaching kids the why behind brushing makes it more meaningful. Explain in simple terms that:

• Brushing keeps their teeth strong and healthy.
• It removes “sugar bugs” (plaque) that can cause cavities.
• Clean teeth help prevent bad breath.

For a fun, hands-on approach, try using disclosing tablets—they highlight plaque buildup and help kids see where they need to brush better.

Setting the Foundation for Lifelong Oral Health

Teaching kids good brushing habits early helps them keep a healthy smile for life. Parents play a crucial role in making kid brushing their teeth an enjoyable and consistent routine.

If you have questions about child dentistry or want to ensure your child is brushing correctly, our team at Beyond Smiles of Park Ridge is here to help. Schedule a pediatric dental visit today to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright!

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