How To Help Your Kids Brush Their Teeth: Fun, Habits & Family Bonding

Yes, brushing teeth is essential from the very first tooth. But getting kids to brush properly, and consistently, can feel like a never-ending battle. From resistance to forgetfulness to simply being too tired, kids often need extra support to build a lasting oral care routine.

The good news? Helping your child form great dental habits doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tools and mindset, brushing can become something they look forward to.

It’s important to educate on dental hygiene matters from an early age,and how you can turn brushing into a fun, rewarding family ritual.

Why early oral care matters 

Establishing a solid brushing routine during childhood is about more than fresh breath and clean teeth. It sets the foundation for lifelong dental health. Baby teeth play a critical role in helping children chew, speak, and maintain space for adult teeth. If those teeth aren’t properly cared for, it can lead to pain, infection, and long-term dental complications.

By helping your child build healthy habits early, you're setting them up for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles.

How to get your children to brush their teeth

1. Make it a routine

Consistency is key. Brushing should happen at the same time each day, ideally before breakfast and before bed. When it becomes a non-negotiable part of the routine (like putting on pyjamas), children are less likely to resist.

2. Turn brushing into a game

Children are more likely to engage with tasks that feel like play. Whether you count how many “sugar bugs” they can brush away, challenge them to reach every tooth before the timer runs out, or use a brushing app with animated characters, making it interactive can turn resistance into enthusiasm.

      3. Use a timer or the tooth brush song

Dentists recommend brushing for two full minutes, but for kids that can feel like an eternity. A visual timer or a two-minute song can help your child stay on track without constant prompting. Many children’s toothbrushes now come with built-in timers or light-up features to make things easier.

Our Kids Electric Toothbrushes have a built in timer that does the work for you!

     4. Brush together 

Children learn best by example. Brushing your teeth alongside your child not only shows them how to do it correctly, but also turns brushing into a shared activity, rather than a solo task. It's a great opportunity to model good technique and reinforce the importance of oral care.

    5. Reward consistency using a sticker chart

For younger children, visual motivation can be a powerful tool. Try using a sticker chart where they can mark off each brushing session. After a week of consistent brushing, they can earn a small reward, like choosing the bedtime story or an extra five minutes of playtime.

    6. Let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste

Giving kids the opportunity to choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste can increase their willingness to brush. A toothbrush featuring a fun character or a toothpaste with a fruity, child-friendly flavour can make the experience more enjoyable for them. When kids feel involved in the decision, they’re more likely to engage with the routine consistently.

Our Strawberry Cheetah Toothpaste and Bubblegum Monster Toothpaste are absolute favourites with little brushers! 

Brushing basics: What kids need to know

Even with the right tools and motivation, proper technique matters. Here's what children (and parents) should keep in mind:

• Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

• Brush all tooth surfaces, front, back, and chewing areas.

• Gently brush along the gum line.

• Brush the tongue to help remove bacteria and freshen breath.
  

• Don’t rinse with water immediately after brushing, let the fluoride do its job.
  

Children under the age of 7 may still need help with brushing to make sure all areas are cleaned effectively.

When to see a dentist

Your child’s first dental visit should happen by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth appearing, whichever comes first. Regular check-ups every six months help detect any early issues and reinforce the importance of oral hygiene.

Final thoughts 

Helping your child build a consistent brushing habit isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. With a bit of creativity, patience, and routine, brushing can become a positive, daily habit your child actually enjoys.

For more expert advice on children's oral care, explore our range of child-friendly oral care products designed to make brushing easier and more effective for every age.