Practical tips from a mum and dentist to turn toothbrushing into a moment kids actually look forward to.
By Dr. Camila, DDS | Updated on April 18, 2026
Hi mums and dads!
If you found this post, you’ve probably already lived through that moment: time to brush teeth and suddenly there are tears, running away, or a full-on meltdown.
Take a deep breath. You are not alone.
As a dentist and a mum, I know how challenging this moment can be. And I also know that with a few simple, creative strategies, you can turn toothbrushing into something your child actually looks forward to — instead of dreads.
Let’s do this together!
How to Make Kids Enjoy Brushing Their Teeth — 7 Strategies That Work
These are the strategies I use in my dental practice — and at home!
1. Let Your Child Choose Their Own Brush and Toothpaste
This one changes everything.
When kids pick their own toothbrush — their favourite character, colour, or one with flashing lights — they build a connection with it.
Toothpaste matters too. Fruity flavours like strawberry, watermelon, or bubblegum are far more inviting for little ones than classic mint.
Just remember: always use fluoride toothpaste in the right amount for their age.
2. Turn It Into a Game With Music and a Timer
Two minutes can feel like forever for a child.
The fix? Use a song! Put on a track they love and tell them they need to brush until it ends.
Even better: use a fun toothbrushing timer with music and animations to guide them through every part of their mouth.
👉 [Try the Mamãe Sorriso Kids Brushing Timer — it’s free!] (insert your tool link here)
3. Brush Together as a Family
Kids learn by watching us, always.
When you brush your teeth alongside your child, you show them this is something everyone does — not a punishment.
Turn it into a family ritual. “Time for our tooth brushing together!” lands very differently from “Go brush your teeth!”
4. Build a Consistent Routine
Children feel safe with routine.
Brushing at the same times every day — after breakfast and before bed — makes it become automatic, just like getting dressed or taking a bath.
There may be resistance at first. But consistency is what turns a daily battle into a natural habit.
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5. Use a Reward Chart
It doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive.
A simple calendar where your child sticks a star sticker every time they brush properly is already a huge source of pride for them.
After a full week, a small reward — a fun outing, an extra bedtime story — reinforces the positive behaviour in a loving way.
6. Tell a Story During Brushing
In my practice, I always tell little ones that the mouth is full of tiny “bugs” that eat leftover food — and when the food runs out, they start eating the teeth!
The toothbrush is the superhero that chases those villains away.
Create characters, build adventures. Your child’s imagination is your greatest ally here.
7. Use Educational Apps and Games
Technology can be a great helper at toothbrushing time.
There are apps that make brushing interactive, with characters, rewards, and timers. Some options I recommend:
- Brush DJ — plays music for the full 2 minutes of brushing
- Disney Magic Timer — unlocks characters as your child brushes
- Mamãe Sorriso Educational Games — fun, free, and created with care!
Why Is It So Hard to Get Kids to Brush Their Teeth?
Before the tips, let’s understand the “why.”
Children don’t naturally understand the importance of oral hygiene. To them, brushing teeth is just an interruption to playtime. It doesn’t make sense to stop what they’re doing for a task that feels pointless.
On top of that, the taste of toothpaste, the feeling of the brush, and even the two-minute timer can feel uncomfortable at first.
The good news? All of this has a solution!
What About Older Kids?
With older children, the approach shifts a little.
They can already understand consequences. Showing photos of cavities, explaining bad breath and gum disease can be more effective than games alone.
Electric toothbrushes with monitoring apps tend to work well for tweens and teens — especially the tech-savvy ones.
Regular dental visits help too. When a dental professional reinforces the message, the impact is much greater.
Quick Dental Hygiene Checklist for Parents
- ✅ Brush 3 times a day — after main meals
- ✅ Use dental floss daily, even on baby teeth
- ✅ Fluoride toothpaste can be used from the very first tooth (rice grain amount up to age 3, pea-sized from 3 to 6)
- ✅ Replace the toothbrush every 3 months
- ✅ First dental visit at 6 months of age or when the first tooth appears
How to Make Kids Enjoy Brushing Their Teeth Starts With Connection
There’s no magic formula — but there is consistency, creativity, and presence.
Every child has their own pace. What works for one may not work for another. Try the strategies, adapt them to your child, and don’t be discouraged if there’s resistance at the start.
What matters most is building a positive relationship with oral hygiene from an early age. That goes far beyond teeth — it’s a gift for their health and wellbeing for life.
You’re doing great. The simple fact that you’re here, looking for answers, shows how much you love and care for your child.
With love,
Dr. Camila — Mommy Smile 🌸
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FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
❓ When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?
As soon as the first tooth appears! Before that, a damp gauze or soft cloth on the gums already helps with oral hygiene.
❓ How long should kids brush their teeth?
The ideal time is 2 minutes, covering all surfaces of the teeth and the tongue. Use a timer or a song to help keep track.
❓ Can I use fluoride toothpaste on my baby?
Yes! Current guidelines recommend fluoride toothpaste from the very first tooth. Use a rice grain-sized amount up to age 3, and a pea-sized amount from ages 3 to 6.
❓ What if my child completely refuses to brush?
Stay calm and keep the routine. Try changing something — the brush, the toothpaste flavour, the song, or the location. If the refusal is intense and persistent, talk to your child’s dentist.
❓ Should I use dental floss on baby teeth?
Yes! Flossing should start as soon as two teeth are touching. It’s essential for preventing cavities between baby teeth.
I hope this helped! Drop a comment below and tell me — which tip are you going to try first with your little one? 💬🦷