Dr. Sangha from Happy Kids Dental emphasizes that children typically lack the manual dexterity to properly brush their own teeth until around the age of seven or eight. However, she encourages parents to involve kids in brushing before then, even if it requires guidance. Dr. Sangha notes that it can be difficult for toddlers to focus on brushing, especially since “two minutes is a long time for a tired child before bed.”
Sensory sensitivities can also create challenges. Cerri Mellish from Bupa Dental Care explains that some children may struggle with the taste or texture of toothpaste and toothbrushes, finding minty toothpaste “spicy” or uncomfortable. This issue can be temporary for some, while more persistent for others. Additionally, during teething between six months and two years, brushing can be painful.
Here are seven tips from the experts to help make toothbrushing a more successful and enjoyable experience for toddlers:
Give Them Independence
Dr. Sangha recommends letting children attempt brushing first, followed by a parent or caregiver to ensure thorough cleaning. This encourages independence while still ensuring proper oral care. She suggests framing it as “mummy’s” or “daddy’s” turn to make the transition smoother.
Use Visual Aids
Toddlers respond better to visual tools rather than long explanations. Dr. Sangha advises using a two-minute sand timer to help toddlers stay focused. Mellish adds that you can engage them by pretending their favorite character is hiding in their teeth and needs to be “scrubbed out.”
Make It Fun
Incorporating playful routines, such as clapping or dancing after brushing, can motivate toddlers. Dr. Sangha says that once a fun habit is established, children will look forward to brushing in anticipation of the “reward” at the end.
Harness Easy Wins
Dr. Sangha suggests using reward charts to track morning and evening brushing, offering small treats at the end of the week—such as stickers or even a trip to the zoo for older children. However, sweets should be avoided as rewards.
Maintain Consistency
Toddlers thrive on routine, and Dr. Sangha points out that maintaining consistent timing for brushing each day helps establish a stable routine, making it easier for toddlers to accept and engage with the process.
Select Child-Friendly Tools
By the age of three, children may want to start brushing on their own, so Hannah Ripley from Church Street Dental Practice recommends choosing a toothbrush suited for small hands. However, parents should supervise brushing until manual dexterity improves, typically around age six.
Add a Soundtrack
Ripley and Mellish suggest incorporating music into brushing time. Brushing along to a favorite song, or even using a specific toothbrushing song found on YouTube, can make the process more enjoyable and help toddlers brush for the correct amount of time.
By implementing these strategies, parents can help toddlers establish healthy brushing habits in a fun and engaging way while ensuring their teeth are properly cleaned.
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