Less Fussin’, More Brushin’. Easy Tips To Get Little Ones Brushing Their Teeth

Trying to get little ones to brush their teeth can be testing, especially when they are fussy brushers. There can be many reasons they kick up a fuss from sensitivities, not liking the toothpaste to feeling uncomfortable. The good news is at Love Teeth we have figured out a thing or two about getting kids to fall in love with taking care of their teeth. It can be a bit of trial and error, however these tips are sure to make a big (helpful) difference. 

At What Age Do Children Need To Start Brushing? 

Kiddo’s do not get immunity from tooth decay, so getting them into a good brushing routine as early as possible is recommended. Teeth start coming through from around six months, as soon as they do gentle brushing will help take the best care of their oral health. Consistency and early brushing can prevent problems later down the line – twice a day everyday is the goal. 

Tap Into The Magic Of Routine

If there is one thing kids love it’s routine, and making it fun is where the magic happens. How can you make brushing your teeth fun? Kids tend to put up a fight when brushing feels like a chore. Try and turn it into something they ‘get’ to do as opposed to ‘have to’. Making it the first thing they do when they wake up or before bedtime reading gets them into a flow. Doing it together could be a great way to make it more special and natural. Before you know it they will be the one reminding you it’s time to brush your teeth. 

Choose A Toothpaste They Like

Choosing a toothpaste your kid likes will make a huge difference to brushing time. First up flavour, imagine being told to eat banana ice cream when you can’t stand bananas? Mint can be a little strong for early brushers. Opting for fruity flavours that aren’t too sweet is best. Children under three only need a very small amount of toothpaste, no larger than a grain of rice. Try and be careful not to use too much as this can be too strong. Letting them choose a toothpaste and toothbrush they like the colour of can also help, it makes them a part of the process. Look out for the ADA seal of acceptance for reassurance it is safe, effective and approved by dentists. 

Fluoride – Friendly

Fluoride is an important mineral that is essential for strong, healthy teeth. You are probably familiar with seeing this word on the tube of your toothpaste. It is also often present in public water supplies. Little ones benefit from this mineral so opting for fluoride-friendly toothpaste and brushing twice a day ensures they are getting enough. Encouraging your child to spit after brushing is recommended, this prevents ingesting the mineral which can cause mild stomach upset. If your little one is struggling with spitting you can opt for a fluoride free toothpaste until they become more familiar and used to brushing. 

Give Them Some Brush-tastic Fun

Who said brushing had to be boring? As a kid brushing can be made into heaps of fun. Actually the more fun the better as this will strengthen the importance of brushing and develop good habits they will hopefully keep for life. At Love Teeth Kids we design our clinics to be places kids look forward to coming too with games rooms, friendly dentists and plenty of entertainment. We have recently launched our activity sheets for home learning, tooth charts to track progress and even tooth fairy vouchers to make wobbly teeth something to look forward to. 

The Brushing Take Aways

Being fussy about brushing teeth is pretty common with little ones. It can feel uncomfortable and unnatural at first, patience and consistency is key. Simple tips that can ease them into brushing are choosing a toothpaste they like the taste of and making it part of their routine. Brushing at the same time every day gets them used to the process. And finally, try tapping into some brushing fun! Our activity sheets, bedtime stories and Love Teeth Kids tooth fairy vouchers make them feel more involved and curious about oral health. Those foundational years are very important in setting them up with good dental habits for life. It may take a while, however, with a little bit of experimenting and fun they’ll be as excited about brushing their teeth as a trip to the seaside. (nearly)

Have questions or concerns about your little one’s teeth? Get in touch with our friendly team to book a free consultation.