August 2026
Getting young children to brush their teeth can feel like a losing battle, but it’s one worth fighting. Nearly one in four children aged two through five has cavities in their baby teeth.
Those cavities matter more than you realize. Decayed baby teeth may need to be removed before the adult teeth are ready to come in. This process can be painful, and the resulting gaps make it harder to eat and talk. These gaps also make it more likely that adult teeth will shift in ways that will require braces later on.
The good news? A few simple strategies can make toothbrushing easier and even fun.
Play music
Instead of watching the clock, try playing DJ while your child brushes — and let your child choose the tunes. Aim for at least 2 minutes of brushing.
Offer rewards
Create a point system through which your child can earn a point for brushing their teeth after breakfast and before bed. Kids can exchange points for a special, non-sweet treat, like a new book or toy, a special outing, or a favorite meal.
Have your child choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste
A fun toothbrush with their favorite toothpaste flavor will go a long way toward making toothbrushing enjoyable.
Brush your teeth together
Brushing together lets you model good habits and helps your child follow along.
