Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 3 minutes
Toddlers and young kids crave independence, and toothbrushing often turns into a power struggle. With the right strategies, you can turn brushing time into a routine that’s fun, stress-free, and effective.
In this blog, you’ll find dentist-approved and parent-tested tips to help your child build habits that protect their smile for life.
We provide dental care for the whole family at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden. We proudly accept Medicaid and make quality dental care accessible for every child.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Start Brushing Early
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they are essential for your child’s health and development. Baby teeth play an essential role in your child’s health and development by:
- Helping children chew food and get proper nutrition
- Supporting speech development
- Holding space for permanent teeth and guiding them into the right position
Along with brushing at home, regular dental checkups play a big role in keeping little smiles healthy. Your dentist can monitor growth, catch early signs of cavities, and share brushing tips that make your routine at home easier and more effective. Caring for baby teeth now sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral hygiene.
5 Ways to Get Your Child To Brush Their Teeth
Getting kids to brush doesn’t have to be a struggle. Try these five ideas to make brushing time easier and more fun.
1. Turn brushing into a game
Kids learn best through play. Pretend the toothbrush is a superhero fighting sugar bugs or use a fun story to keep them engaged.
2. Use music, timers, or apps
Two minutes can feel like a long time for a child. Try brushing songs, sand timers, or free brushing apps that use characters and rewards to keep kids brushing long enough.
3. Let them choose their toothbrush and toothpaste
Let your child choose a fun toothbrush and toothpaste flavor they like. When they feel involved, they’re more likely to look forward to brushing.
4. Brush together as a family
Children love to copy their parents. Stand at the sink and brush side-by-side, it shows brushing is just part of everyday life.
5. Try a reward system
Sticker charts or small rewards encourage consistency. Celebrate effort, not perfection. Over time, kids will brush because it’s habit, not just for rewards.
Common Mistakes Parents Make
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy for parents to slip into habits that make brushing less effective. Knowing what to avoid can save your child from cavities and help make brushing a smoother part of daily life.
Brushing Too Quickly
Many parents rush through brushing, especially during busy mornings or bedtime routines. But a few quick swipes aren’t enough to clear away plaque. Kids need two minutes of brushing, twice a day. Use a timer, song, or app to make sure they are brushing long enough.
Letting Kids Brush Alone Too Early
It’s tempting to hand over the toothbrush and let your child take charge, but most kids don’t have the coordination to clean thoroughly until age 8 or 9. Until then, think of it as teamwork, let them try first, then you finish the job to make sure every tooth gets attention.
Thinking Baby Teeth Aren’t Important
Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play a big role in your child’s health. Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain, infections, and even affect how permanent teeth come in. Treating them with the same importance as adult teeth helps protect your child’s smile long-term.
Partner With Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics
Good oral health starts with small, consistent habits at home and regular dental checkups from an early age. By helping your child learn to care for their teeth and making dental visits a positive experience, you set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Contact Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics to schedule an appointment at any of our locations.
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878
📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
FAQs
How much toothpaste should I use for a toddler?
For toddlers under 3, use a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. From ages 3–6, use a pea-sized amount.
How often should kids have dental visits?
Most children should see the dentist every six months. Regular dental visits allow your dentist check growth, catch problems early, and reinforce good brushing habits at home.
What is the 2-2-2 rule for brushing teeth?
The 2-2-2 rule is a simple way to remember good brushing habits: brush 2 times a day, for 2 minutes each time, and visit the dentist 2 times a year. Following this routine helps keep your child’s teeth clean, healthy, and cavity-free.
Where can I find a dentist near me accepting new patients?
Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics welcomes new patients at all four of our convenient locations in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden. We provide comprehensive dental care for children and accept Medicaid to make visits more accessible for families.
