A Parent's Guide To Brushing A Toddler's Teeth

Getting a toddler to brush their teeth can feel like a feat of superhuman strength and endless patience. It’s a daily challenge many parents face, but it's one of the most important habits you can teach. The good news is, a little creativity can go a long way in turning this essential task into a moment of connection and even fun.

This guide will provide you with simple, battle-tested strategies to make brushing a smooth and successful part of your child's routine. We'll explore fun techniques and tips to help you both enjoy the process and lay the foundation for a lifetime of great oral health. Let's make brushing a positive experience, not a power struggle.

Tips for Brushing a Toddler's Teeth -

Turn Brushing into a Two-Minute Party - Toddlers have a very short attention span, so a good routine is to make brushing a fun, timed event. Use a catchy 2-minute song or video from a streaming service, or make up your own silly tune. This turns a chore into a playful, musical event and ensures you brush for the full recommended time.

Gather Your Toddler-Friendly Tools - Using the right equipment makes a huge difference. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head that's designed to fit comfortably in your child's mouth. For toothpaste, a little goes a long way. Use a tiny smear about the size of a grain of rice for children under three, and a pea-sized amount for children three and older.

Let Them Take the Lead First - Toddlers love to feel like they are in control. Let them hold the toothbrush and take a turn brushing their own teeth first. Once they've had their moment, you can take over to do a thorough job, making sure all the teeth are properly cleaned and healthy.

Lead by Example (and Mimicry) - Toddlers are natural imitators. By brushing your teeth at the same time, you're setting a great example. It shows them exactly what to do and transforms the routine into a fun, shared activity rather than a solitary task.

Experiment with Different Positions - If your toddler resists, try changing your physical position. Sometimes, holding them in your lap with their head resting on your chest can make them feel more secure and give you a better angle to brush. The key is to find a position that is comfortable for both of you.

Focus on a tooth friendly diet

What your child eats and drinks is a major factor in preventing cavities. Sugary and sticky foods and drinks, like candy, crackers, and juice, leave behind sugars that feed the bacteria in their mouth. This creates acid that can wear down their enamel. To combat this, try to limit sugary snacks to mealtimes and offer healthy alternatives like fresh fruits, vegetables, and cheese in between. Remember, plain water is the best drink for their teeth—it helps rinse away food particles and keeps their mouth hydrated. A balanced, healthy diet is a powerful tool for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

When to Schedule Your Child's First Dental Visit

We recommend that your child has their first dental visit from the age of two, unless you have a specific concern you'd like us to look at sooner. We find it's helpful to bring them along to one of your own appointments first. This allows them to get familiar with the dental environment and see what an appointment is like, making their first visit more relaxed and comfortable.