Helping your child build good oral hygiene habits early is one of the most valuable gifts you can give them. Healthy teeth don’t just mean a better smile. Healthy teeth are also essential to clear speech, proper chewing, and confidence. However, as many parents know, brushing your child’s teeth can feel like an everyday battle!
Whether you are just starting your baby on brushing their first tooth or your energetic toddler is learning how to brush, learning proper technique can change the game. Read on for 9 dentist-approved tips on how to teach your child to brush their teeth the best way possible, for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
1. Start Brushing as Soon as the First Tooth Appears
Many parents are unsure when to begin brushing their child’s teeth. The truth is, dental care for toddlers starts the moment that first little tooth pops through the gums — usually around six months of age.
Before teeth appear, you can gently clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth or a silicone finger brush. Once the first tooth emerges, switch to a small, soft-bristled children’s toothbrush and use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste for kids (about the size of a grain of rice).
Getting into this habit early helps your child become comfortable with toothbrushing as part of their daily routine.
2. Use the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste
The tools you choose to use matter. A children’s toothbrush with soft bristles with a small head is ideal for small mouths. Some toothbrushes will even have fun colours or characters to help make brushing even more exciting for children.
In terms of toothpaste, you should choose a toothpaste containing fluoride. Fluoride is an important mineral for children that helps fight cavities in children by strengthening tooth enamel. For children ages three through six, a pea-size amount will suffice.
Let your child create their own toothbrush or toothpaste flavor. The less you can make brushing seem like a chore, but more of a fun way of brushing!
3. Make Toothbrushing Fun and Engaging
Many children resist brushing simply because they find it boring. Turning brushing time into a game can change everything. Try these ideas:
- Play a 2-minute song or use a timer — brushing should be at least two minutes and twice a day.
- Use brushing apps or videos designed for kids that guide them through proper brushing.
- Create a reward chart — stickers or minor rewards can also be given when a child brushes without complaint.
Making brushing part of a fun kids brushing routine will help children look forward to brushing instead of avoiding it.
Also Read: How Diet Affects Your Child’s Teeth: Foods to Embrace and Avoid
4. Teach Proper Brushing Technique
Even if your child is enthusiastic about brushing their teeth, they still may not be cleaning them properly. Here is how to get them to brush them correctly:
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45° angle toward the gums.
- Clean each tooth (front and back) using gentle circular strokes.
- Remember to brush the tongue too, because it removes bacteria and freshens breath.
- Focus on all sides of every tooth, not just the front ones.
If your child is under the age of six, you will need to assist or supervise them while they brush to ensure they’re brushing properly. Parental supervision while brushing aids in effective cleaning, which will also help to prevent your child from swallowing toothpaste.
5. Establish a Consistent Brushing Routine
Consistency is the key to success when it comes to kids’ oral hygiene. Make brushing a non-negotiable part of your child’s morning and bedtime routines. When it becomes a habit, they’re less likely to skip it — even on busy days.
Here’s a helpful pattern:
- Morning: Brush after breakfast to remove food particles and sugars.
- Evening: Brush before bedtime to ensure the mouth stays clean overnight.
Creating a brushing chart for kids can help track their progress and make them feel proud of keeping up with their routine.
6. Lead by Example
Children love to imitate their parents and that’s something you can use to your advantage! Brush your teeth at the same time as your child. When they see you doing it, they’ll naturally want to join in.
Explain what you’re doing as you brush — “I’m cleaning the front of my teeth,” “Now I’m brushing my tongue” — so they understand the steps. This family-friendly approach reinforces that oral hygiene habits for young children are part of a healthy lifestyle for everyone.
7. Don’t Forget Flossing and Rinsing
Brushing alone can’t remove all the plaque between teeth, especially as your child’s teeth start to touch. Once they have two teeth that sit close together, it’s time to introduce flossing.
You can use floss picks for kids to make the process easier and less intimidating. Encourage them to floss once a day, ideally before bedtime.
As your child grows, you can also introduce a children’s mouth rinse — but only if they can swish and spit without swallowing. Always choose alcohol-free products designed specifically for kids.
8. Visit the Dentist Regularly
Even with great brushing, regular dental visits are important. The first dental visit should be by the child’s first birthday, or within six months of seeing their first tooth. After that, it will be important to have routine dental visits every six months to catch any issues early on.
A pediatric dentist will be able to identify early signs of decay, provide fluoride treatments, and give suggestions for improving children’s dental care. Furthermore, this will provide the opportunity to get the child comfortable in a dental chair and encourage trust and confidence.
If the child is nervous about a dental visit, explain that the dentist is a “tooth helper”, who is looking out for their smile. Reading some fun books or watching a cartoon about going to the dentist can help with their anxiety too.
9. Encourage Healthy Eating for Healthy Teeth
Good brushing habits go hand in hand with a balanced diet. Sugary snacks, juice, and sticky treats can lead to tooth decay in kids, even if they brush regularly. Encourage your child to:
- Drink plenty of water (especially tap water with fluoride)
- Eat crunchy fruits and veggies like apples and carrots
- Limit sugary snacks and fizzy drinks
- Have cheese or yogurt as healthy, tooth-friendly snacks
By pairing kids’ oral hygiene with a nutritious diet, you’ll set your child up for lifelong dental health.
Also Read: Why Choose a Trusted Dental Practice for Your Family’s Oral Health Needs?
Bonus Tip: Stay Patient and Positive
It is common for children to dislike brushing their teeth every once in a while. Be calm, keep routines consistent, and try positive reinforcement. Praise your child when they brush well, and never use toothbrushing as a punishment.
Remember: it takes time for little ones to develop independence with brushing. Your guidance, encouragement, and patience will make all the difference.
Final Thoughts: Building a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
Teaching your child to brush their teeth correctly is not just about avoiding cavities — it is about helping to create confidence, discipline, and lifelong habits. With these top tips on brushing your child’s teeth properly, you can help make oral hygiene effortless, fun, and successful for the entire family.
Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate the successes along the way. Your child’s healthy, bright smile will thank you for years to come!
Give Your Child the Best Start with Eccleshill Dental
At Eccleshill Dental, we appreciate the value of early intervention in children’s dental care for their ongoing oral health. Our professional, welcoming team enjoys treating younger patients and creating a positive, enjoyable experience that instills confidence and healthy behaviors that last a lifetime.
Additionally, if you are looking for your child’s first dental check-up, looking for recommendations on brushing techniques, or wanting family-friendly preventive care, we’re here for you.
Book your child’s appointment today at Eccleshill Dental in Bradford and give them the gift of a happy, healthy smile!
Call us or visit our website to schedule a visit — because great smiles start young!
