Regular brushing keeps your toddler's teeth and gums healthy and reduces the risk of cavities. If your toddler is uncooperative when it comes to dental care, change the way you approach the twice-daily task to make it more child-friendly. Turning it into an entertaining routine reduces the struggle with your toddler and allows you to make sure his teeth get clean enough.
Make It Routine
Routines give toddlers a guide for what is expected and what will happen next. Incorporate brushing her teeth into her regular morning and nighttime routines so they become expected. Keep the routine the same each time with each part of the routine coming in the same order. For example, every night put on her pajamas and then go straight to the bathroom to brush her teeth. The pajamas signal that it is almost time to brush teeth, so she prepares and is less resistant to sitting still for the task.
Brush Together
Make tooth brushing time a family activity to get your toddler excited about it. Have your partner and any older children in the family brush their teeth at the same time as you brush your toddler's teeth. The older family members serve as role models, showing your toddler proper brushing techniques. Watching the others brush also helps distract him so you are able to get his teeth fully clean.
Take Turns
Young toddlers aren't able to fully brush their teeth alone yet, but they are old enough to start practicing their brushing. Start by brushing your toddler's teeth yourself, making sure to get all areas of her mouth. Pass the toothbrush over to her so she gets a chance to brush her own teeth. Guide her hand to teach her the brushing motion. Show her how to brush all the surfaces inside of her mouth. Watching in the mirror makes it more interesting to a young child. Another option is to let your toddler brush your teeth with your own toothbrush after she gets her teeth brushed.
Make It Entertaining
Making the process more entertaining keeps your toddler occupied and more willing to participate. Choose a special toddler toothbrush for your child in his favorite color or with a favorite character printed on it. Set a kitchen timer to show him how long you need to brush his teeth. This lets him know he needs to sit still until the timer rings. A sticker chart with or without rewards appeals to many toddlers. Let him place a sticker on the chart after each brushing session.
