Let's face it — kids need some inspiration when it comes to oral hygiene. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, so building a routine your child enjoys makes all the difference. Here are some of our favorite ways to make brushing time something to look forward to:
- Buy a new toothbrush and let your child personalize it with stickers, characters and the colors they love.
- Consider a battery-operated toothbrush — they're more fun and often more effective at cleaning teeth.
- Let your child pick their own toothpaste flavor.
- Keep an eye out so toothpaste gets brushed with — not swallowed.
- Practice the technique on a spare toothbrush — using stuffed animals, dolls, or brushing right alongside your child.
- Reward with non-food treats like extra screen time, a favorite book, or a sticker chart instead of candy.
- Make it a shared family moment — model good habits and keep it silly and enjoyable together.
- Enlist older siblings as positive role models and cheerleaders.
Keep these up and your little one will be impressing their dentist in no time!