How to Make Brushing Fun for Kids: Dentist-Approved Tips for Parents

Keeping your child’s smile healthy starts with daily brushing—but convincing little ones to brush can be a challenge. At Sunray Pediatric Dentistry, we know that making oral care enjoyable is one of the best brushing teeth tips for kids. Here’s how you can turn brushing time into fun time, all while following dentist-approved advice.

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent cavities and sets the foundation for lifelong oral health. It’s important to start brushing as soon as your child’s first tooth appears and to supervise their brushing until they’re able to do it well on their own—usually around age 8.

Let Kids Choose Their Tools

• Pick a fun toothbrush: Let your child choose a toothbrush with their favorite color or character. Look for brushes with soft bristles and a small head designed for kids’ mouths.
• Flavorful toothpaste: Allow your child to select a kid-friendly toothpaste flavor. This makes brushing more appealing and helps them look forward to the routine.

Make Brushing a Game

• Brush to music: Play a two-minute song or use a brushing app to keep track of time and make brushing feel like a dance party.
• Take turns: Let your child brush your teeth, then switch. This playful approach helps them learn proper technique and builds positive associations with brushing.
• Sticker charts: Use a reward system, like a sticker chart, to celebrate consistent brushing.

Use the Right Technique

• Gentle circles: Teach your child to move the brush in gentle circles at a 45-degree angle to the gums, covering all sides of each tooth.
• Small amounts of toothpaste: For children under 3, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). For ages 3 to 6, use a pea-sized amount.
• Comfortable position: For toddlers, brushing can be easier if they’re lying down or sitting on your lap. Older kids may prefer standing on a stepstool to reach the sink and mirror.

Build a Routine

• Consistency is key: Brush after breakfast and before bedtime every day. Making it part of the daily routine helps kids know what to expect.
• Start small: If your child resists, begin with short brushing sessions and gradually work up to the full two minutes.

Supervise and Support

• Help until they’re ready: Most kids need help brushing until they can tie their own shoes. Even then, supervise to ensure they’re brushing thoroughly for two minutes.
• Positive reinforcement: Praise your child for a job well done and encourage them to keep up the good work.

Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in. Regular checkups help catch problems early and reinforce good brushing habits.

Making brushing fun is one of the most effective brushing teeth tips for kids. With these dentist-approved strategies from Sunray Pediatric Dentistry, you can help your child develop healthy habits—and a happy smile—for life.