Get Kids To Brush Teeth

Brushing teeth is a basic and necessary self-help skill that all kids must learn. Not all kids are enthusiastic or even willing to open their mouths for this important oral habit. Toddlers may protest by crying and refusing to open their mouths for many reasons. These reasons may include disliking the taste of the toothpaste, fear of having the toothbrush in their mouth or simple refusal to cooperate. Older children may associate teeth-brushing as a chore and do it carelessly so that they can go back to whatever activity they were doing prior to brushing their teeth.


When teeth-brushing is made into a fun activity, kids will actually look forward to doing it. Be sure to have toothpaste that doesn't burn. Fruity flavors work best for children. A spinning or light-up toothbrush can really add to the fun. Some ideas to get them brushing is to have them make silly faces into the mirror as they are brushing. Not only does this create a lot of laughter, but it also helps them reach those important, hard to reach teeth such as the molars. For the unwilling toddler who refuses to open their mouth at all, make a game out of it, so that they are in control. Have them get a favorite stuffed animal or doll and let them "brush" its teeth. Follow up with telling them it's their turn to brush so that their teeth can be clean too.

Letting your kids brush your teeth is another way to teach them good brushing habits and make it fun for them. This activity will let them see all of your teeth and how important it is to get them clean. This also reiterates for them that they will need to do the same when brushing their own. Some children do much better with a visual queue. For children who learn more visually, take pictures of yourself or another member of the family brushing their teeth and tape them above the sink so that they can use it as a guide.

It is important to establish with your children that each time they brush their teeth; they spend at least 2 minutes brushing. This may seem long and tedious for children, so add to the fun by playing a song that lasts 2-3 minutes and telling them they have to brush until the song is over. Change the music around so they look forward to hearing the new song. Reward your children for their efforts. Make a responsibility chart that includes teeth-brushing. This doesn't have to be an expense. One piece of poster board, a ruler, and a permanent marker will make a perfect homemade responsibility chart. When your kids are finished brushing, allow them to put a sticker next to their completed responsibility of brushing their teeth. This makes them feel proud of their accomplishments and motivated to keep up with their good brushing habits.