Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 4 minutes
Brushing a toddler’s teeth can feel like a daily showdown. One moment they are giggling, the next they are twisting, turning, and clamping their mouth shut.Toddlers crave independence, and the toothbrush often becomes part of that power struggle.
The good news is that brushing does not have to be perfect every time. What matters most is building consistent, positive habits that protect their smile.
In this blog, you will find practical tips for brushing your toddlers teeth, along with fun, stress-free strategies to make toothbrushing a routine you both can enjoy.
We offer dental exams and cleanings at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
If your toddler resists brushing, you can still build good habits. Offer choices, make it a game, lead by example, and aim for consistency over perfection. Small wins create strong oral hygiene habits that protect baby teeth and lay the foundation for healthy permanent teeth.
Give Them Some Control
For a toddler, brushing teeth can feel like something that’s happening to them instead of with them. Shifting that balance helps.
- Turn it into a choice, not a command. Instead of “Time to brush,” try “Do you want the blue toothbrush or the green one tonight?”
- Make them the “helper.” Ask your child to squeeze the toothpaste onto the brush or hold the cap, even small jobs build cooperation.
- Switch roles for fun. Let them take a quick swipe at your teeth before you finish theirs. Toddlers love when the tables turn.
Make It a Game
Toddlers are wired for play, so the more fun brushing feels, the less they’ll fight it.
- Sing or set a beat. A silly brushing song or short timer turns two minutes into something they can follow (and even dance to).
- Go on a sugar bug hunt. Pretend the toothbrush is a superhero chasing bugs that hide between their teeth, cheer every time one gets “caught.”
- Try a brushing app. Many apps use music, characters, and rewards to keep kids focused long enough to get the job done.
Lead by Example
Kids are natural imitators. If they see you brushing every morning and night, they’ll be more likely to do the same. Make it a family routine and stand side by side at the sink and brush together. It shows that oral care is just part of everyday life. If you use an electric toothbrush, let them watch and listen; sometimes the buzz alone makes kids curious enough to try.
Know When “Good Enough” Is Good Enough
Some nights are harder than others, and that’s okay. A quick brush is still better than skipping altogether. If your toddler is extra wiggly, try switching positions, having them sit on your lap with their head resting in your arm can make things easier.
The important part is keeping the habit going. Even short brushes add up and help keep their baby teeth healthy until permanent teeth come in.
As your child grows, their independence will too. If you’re wondering when it’s safe to hand over the toothbrush completely, check out our blog At What Age Can Kids Brush Their Own Teeth? A Parent’s Guide to Independent Brushing.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit
If brushing is still a daily struggle, you do not have to figure it out alone. At your child’s check-up, we can share more tricks, demonstrate techniques, and help you find a routine that actually works for your family.
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
Is it bad to force a toddler to brush their teeth?
Physically forcing a toddler to brush can create fear and make them push back even more. Over time, it can turn brushing into something they dread. A better approach is gentle guidance, praise, and keeping the routine as calm as possible. If brushing continues to be a challenge, a kids dentist can show you techniques that make it easier and keep the experience positive.
How long should I brush my toddler’s teeth?
The goal is two minutes, twice a day, morning and night. We know that can feel impossible with a squirmy toddler, but aiming for consistency is more important than perfection. Even if some sessions are shorter, sticking to the routine helps your child learn that brushing is a normal part of every day.
Where can I find a kids’ dentist in Denver accepting new patients?
If you want a family-friendly dental office that welcomes new patients and accepts Medicaid, Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics is here for you. Families across Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden visit us for preventive oral care and guidance on brushing routines.
