What To Do if Your Kid Refuses To Brush Their Teeth
Convincing a five-year-old to brush their teeth can feel like negotiating a peace treaty with someone who has zero interest in diplomacy. You’re not the first parent to experience this struggle, and you won’t be the last. Kids refusing to brush their teeth is super common, and the good news is that there are things you can do to end the constant back-and-forth. Let’s explore some of the best tips to get your kiddo on board with daily oral care!
Let Them Pick Their Gear
Give your kid some control over the process by letting them choose their toothbrush and toothpaste. You’d be amazed how a toothbrush shaped like a dinosaur or bubblegum-flavored toothpaste can completely change a kid’s attitude. And when they feel like it’s their stuff, they’re way more likely to use it.
Turn It Into a Game
Kids love games! The problem is that they don’t think brushing their teeth is a game—prove them wrong. Set a two-minute timer and make it a challenge. Play their favorite song and tell them they have to brush until it ends.
Or consider the literal games that exist to help kids find tooth-brushing fun. You’ve got Pokémon Smile, Disney Magic Timer, and Chomper Chums, just to name a few!
Teach Them Why Dental Care Matters
Kids just haven’t lived long enough or seen enough to understand why dental care is important. To them, it’s just a boring old chore. So explain the issue in terms they’ll engage with. Tell them that sugar bugs (you know, bacteria) live on their teeth and the only way to get rid of them is brushing. You can also frame the need to brush around things they care about, like keeping their smile strong enough to bite into their favorite foods.
Bring Them to a Dentist They Love
Sometimes, kids listen to anyone who isn’t their parent, and that’s fine. A friendly dental visit can do a lot of the heavy lifting for you. To find your ideal family dentist, look for one who’s great with kids and takes time to explain things at their level. If your kid ends up liking their dentist, they’re much more likely to want to do what they recommend.
You’ve Got This
If your kid refuses to brush their teeth, it’s not the end of the world. Now you know what to do to help them view the hygiene as essential and even fun. In the end, you can’t control how your kid views brushing their teeth, but you can set them up with the tools for success!
