The Right Toothpaste
It might seem easier to have a toothpaste that suits the majority of the family, but this can cause an issue for the younger ones. Adults have different needs for toothpaste such as sensitivity as well as fresher breath. For children the toothpastes you commonly use could be quite unpleasant for kids. Even the freshest, mintiest toothpastes can actually burn your child's sensitive tongue. A good start is to make sure you use a kids’ toothpaste with a flavour they have picked and will enjoy.Teach with Games
Encourage kids to learn how to brush their teeth properly by using a game. Kids like to mimic adults so a copycat game often works well. Make plenty of bubbles when you brush to show kids brushing is fun. Your little one will then be more encouraged to copy your brushing and look forward to doing it each night. You can also have a brushing your teeth song that lasts about two minutes so you can both sing and brush for the right amount of time.Routine
Creating a routine is very important for children. They need structure and knowing they have to brush at the same time makes their routine a little easier. Try to stick to the plan with the right toothpaste and a fun game so they do not have a reason to dread brushing.Show Results
Shop for plaque disclosing tablets that will colour your kids’ teeth. These agents show kids where they have plaque build-up. When they brush they will see the results of as some of the plaque disappears.Rewards for Brushing
As a last resort you can also look at offering a reward system for brushing. Focus on a weekly system with a fun board that shows stars for each time they brush. You can then look at non-food rewards such as choosing the movie on movie night. By making brushing fun, your kids will develop healthy brushing habits that will stay with them for life.Dental Care Fun: How to Make Brushing an Enjoyable Routine for Kids
Brushing teeth doesn’t always spark joy—especially for children. In many households, getting kids to brush their teeth can feel like a daily battle. Whether it’s due to stubbornness, disinterest, or sensory discomfort, the challenge is real. But what if we could flip the script and make dental care fun?
Good oral hygiene starts young, and the habits children develop early often carry into adulthood. That’s why it’s essential to create a positive and engaging brushing experience. If your little one resists brushing or rushes through it, don’t worry—there are creative, proven ways to turn dental care into something they’ll actually look forward to.
Below are some tips and tricks to transform tooth brushing into a playful, rewarding routine your child will love.
1. Choose the Right Toothpaste for Kids
One of the first steps to making dental care fun is selecting a toothpaste that your child actually enjoys. While it may seem practical to use the same toothpaste for the whole family, adult formulas can be too strong for young, sensitive mouths.
Many adult toothpastes contain intense mint flavors or ingredients for sensitivity and whitening, which may feel like they’re “burning” a child’s tongue. Instead, opt for a kids’ toothpaste with a mild flavor—think bubblegum, strawberry, or watermelon. Better yet, let your child pick their favorite flavor at the store. This sense of ownership makes them more likely to participate willingly.
Look for fluoride-based toothpaste designed for children’s teeth, and always supervise brushing to ensure they use the right amount.
2. Turn Brushing into a Game
One of the best ways to create fun dental care habits is through play. Turn brushing time into a bonding and entertaining moment with these game ideas:
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Copycat Brushing: Kids love to mimic their parents. Stand side by side in front of the mirror and brush together, making exaggerated movements and funny faces. Blow bubbles with the toothpaste to add to the excitement.
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Brush-Along Songs: Choose a catchy, two-minute song your child loves—or create a custom brushing song together! Music not only makes brushing more fun, but it also ensures they brush for the recommended amount of time.
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Tooth Timer Challenge: Use a colorful sand timer or a kid-friendly brushing app to set a challenge. Can your child keep brushing until the timer runs out? Celebrate their success with high-fives or silly dances.
Games create positive associations with brushing and help your child learn the proper technique in a way that feels natural and fun.
3. Stick to a Consistent Routine
Children thrive on routine. Establishing a regular dental care schedule—such as brushing after breakfast and before bed—helps them understand what’s expected.
Make brushing part of your family’s daily rhythm. When children know that brushing happens at the same time every day, it becomes second nature instead of a chore. Use visual aids like a toothbrushing chart or morning/evening routine checklist to reinforce consistency.
Pair the routine with other calming nighttime rituals like storytime or warm baths to make the entire process something they look forward to.
4. Show Visible Results with Plaque Disclosing Tablets
Kids are naturally curious and respond well to visual feedback. Plaque disclosing tablets or swabs are a fantastic way to show your child where plaque is hiding on their teeth.
These kid-safe, dye-based products color plaque in bright shades of pink or purple, allowing your child to see where they need to brush better. It turns brushing into a mini science experiment and teaches the importance of brushing thoroughly.
Make it a fun challenge to see how much color disappears after brushing, giving them a tangible reason to brush well and take pride in their progress.
5. Use a Reward System (Non-Food Based)
For particularly reluctant brushers, a reward chart can provide the extra motivation they need. Create a weekly chart and add stickers, stars, or smiley faces every time they brush twice a day.
Once they reach a goal—such as 14 stars for a full week of brushing—reward them with something special like:
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Choosing the family movie for movie night
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Picking the bedtime story
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A new toothbrush in their favorite color or with a cartoon character
Avoid using candy or food-based rewards, as they contradict the purpose of good oral hygiene.
Over time, children begin to value the routine itself—and not just the reward.
Final Thoughts: Make Dental Care Fun and Build Lifelong Habits
Making dental care fun doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little creativity, patience, and enthusiasm, you can turn tooth brushing from a dreaded task into a daily highlight for your child.
Remember: the goal isn’t just getting them to brush tonight—it’s to help them build a lifetime of healthy habits and positive associations with oral hygiene. From silly games and flavored toothpaste to brushing charts and family routines, every step you take brings your child closer to a bright, healthy smile.
So next time you say, “Time to brush your teeth!”—get ready for giggles, songs, and smiles. Because dental care fun is not only possible—it’s essential. Book you dental consultation with us at The Teal Umbrella Family Dental Healthcare in Ottawa.
