How to make toothbrushing fun for kids

Does your bathroom become a battleground when you ask your children to clean their teeth?

Bupa Head Dentist Dr Cathryn Madden says there can be several reasons children resist brushing tooth.

“Sometimes they see it as a bit of a chore and are unable to understand the long-term benefits when they are so young,” she says.

“Some children don’t like the feel of the brush inside their mouth or the taste of toothpaste.”

Dr Madden says baby teeth are extremely important and advises parents to start a dental routine with their little ones as soon as these start to appear¹.

“As they get older, all the evidence points towards a fluoride-containing paste to prevent tooth decay². With children, it is important to use pastes which contain an age-appropriate level of fluoride, as it is unlikely they will master how to spit it out until they are a little older. Most well-known toothpaste brands have toothpastes aimed at different age groups.”

If you’re having trouble convincing your youngsters to brush their teeth, Dr Madden suggests trying these fun and easy-to-do strategies³.

• Brush together as a family.
• Find brushes and toothpastes the children are happy to use.
• Using battery-operated or electric brushes (older children) can make brushing more fun.
• Use tooth brushing timers.
• Listening to a toothbrushing song or using a brushing app
• Brush with fun-flavoured toothpastes (which contain fluoride).

“Watching kids TV shows or reading books that are aimed at teaching children about the dentist and toothbrushing is another good idea,” Dr Madden says. “There’s a great Peppa Pig episode and fun, catchy kids toothbrushing songs on YouTube such as the Hey Duggee ‘Tooth Brushing Song’.”⁴

Establishing a good routine of brushing first thing in the morning and last thing at night is important for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

“Every child is different and some are very independent at a very young age,” she says.

“I would advise that parents continue to help with at least the evening brushing until they are sure that their child is brushing all their teeth really well. The upper posterior teeth can be particularly difficult to get to, so it’s always worthwhile keeping a close eye on children whilst brushing to be sure that the brush is hitting the target areas.”

As children grow older and become more independent, keep the oral hygiene conversation going.

“It is really important for parents to educate children and teens on the importance of a healthy, well-balanced diet, reduce sugar intake, the importance of good oral hygiene and its role in preventing tooth decay and gum disease,” Dr Madden says.

“So is role-modelling. Attending the dentist every 6 months for check-ups and letting them see you brush and floss, and making healthy diet choices are all good ways of setting them up early on the right path.”