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Helping a Child Who Resists Brushing Their Teeth
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
Resistance to tooth brushing is common in toddlers and preschoolers and often relates to emotional development and desire for control. Helpful approaches include offering limited choices (e.g., which toothbrush or toothpaste flavor), creating a predictable routine, and using positive reinforcement. Avoid harsh punishments or lengthy arguments, and consider consulting a pediatrician if resistance is severe or persistent.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 11. Offer two toothbrush options and ask, 'Which one would you like to use tonight?'
- 22. Establish a calm, consistent routine: bath, brush teeth, then storytime every night.
- 33. Praise your child specifically: 'You did a great job brushing your teeth all by yourself!'
What to say
- “I know brushing can be tricky, but you’re doing a great job trying!”
- “Let’s pick your favorite toothpaste flavor so brushing is more fun.”
- “After we brush, we get to read your favorite story together.”
What to practice consistently
- Build a consistent bedtime routine that includes tooth brushing at the same time each day.
- Practice giving limited choices to empower your child in other daily tasks.
- Model calm behavior and emotional regulation during brushing to teach coping skills.
What to avoid
- Avoid forcing or threatening the child to brush, which can increase resistance.
- Avoid lengthy negotiations or arguments about brushing.
- Avoid using tooth brushing as a punishment or reward.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Establishing a predictable tooth brushing routine as part of daily calming activities
- Offering limited, age-appropriate choices to give the child a sense of control
- Using positive reinforcement by praising specific cooperative behaviors
- Modeling tooth brushing by parents or siblings to demonstrate the behavior
- Avoiding sugary snacks and screen time before brushing to reduce overstimulation
- Keeping interactions calm and brief to prevent escalation into tantrums
Related questions
Use songs, games, timers, or let the child choose their toothbrush and toothpaste flavor to make brushing enjoyable.
Stay calm, avoid forcing the child, try brushing at different times, and consider consulting a pediatric dentist or pediatrician for advice.
Children typically begin brushing independently around age 6-7 but still need adult supervision to ensure thorough cleaning.
Related articles on Parent.wiki
Helping a Child Who Dislikes Brushing Their Teeth
Many children resist brushing their teeth due to sensory discomfort, a desire for control, or simply not understanding the importance. Common guidance includes establishing a consistent, calm routine, offering limited choices to empower the child, and using positive reinforcement to encourage cooperation. Avoiding power struggles and making brushing a fun, predictable part of the day can help reduce resistance.
Helping a Child Who Refuses to Brush Their Teeth
Children refusing to brush their teeth is a common challenge often linked to their desire for control, sensory sensitivities, or emotional development stages. Approaches that combine consistent routines, offering limited choices, positive reinforcement, and calm, empathetic responses tend to be most effective.
Making Tooth Brushing Fun for Children
Making brushing teeth enjoyable for children can help establish a consistent oral hygiene routine. Common strategies include incorporating playful elements, using positive reinforcement, and creating a predictable routine that fits into the child's daily schedule.
How Sensory Sensitivities Can Impact a Child's Willingness to Brush Teeth
Sensory sensitivities can significantly affect a child's willingness to brush their teeth because the sensations involved—such as the texture of the toothbrush, the taste of toothpaste, or the feeling of water—may be overwhelming or uncomfortable. Understanding these sensitivities can help caregivers adapt routines to make toothbrushing more tolerable and even enjoyable for the child.
From around the web
Brushing Your Child’s Teeth
Guidance on how to brush toddlers’ teeth and manage resistance.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Oral Health Tips for Children
Information on maintaining children’s oral health and preventing cavities.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Helping Toddlers Cope With Tantrums
Strategies to help children manage frustration and tantrums.
Child Mind Institute
Toddler Behavior and Emotional Development
Insights into toddler emotional development and managing challenging behaviors.
ZERO TO THREE