How to Trick a Toddler Into Brushing Their Teeth

Toddlers aren't born with good hygiene, so it's no wonder that tooth brushing is such a struggle for most children. If this is a problem in your house, you're probably desperate for ways to trick your toddler into brushing their teeth. Luckily, you can keep a few parental tricks up your sleeve that will get those pearly whites clean in no time flat.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Choose the right toothpaste. If your toddler loves cherry-flavored treats, buy her toothpaste that comes in cherry flavor. If she likes bubble gum, try that. There are many different toddler toothpaste flavors on the market, and most come with cute cartoon character tubes that will help encourage her to brush regularly.
2. Pick the right toothbrush. Cartoon characters and cool colors go a long way to making brushing more fun for your toddler. Take him shopping with you and let him pick out which toothbrush he wants to use. Electric models are especially great, since they clean more efficiently in a shorter time. There are even models that play music while he brushes, which can raise the fun factor.
3. Model good behavior. Your toddler will model after your own behavior, so it's important to brush with her every morning and evening. Sit down and brush your teeth together, so that she knows the proper way to brush her teeth. Pretty soon, she'll be reminding you when it's time to brush her teeth.
4. Set up a reward system. Sticker charts are an easy way to trick a toddler into brushing his teeth. Put up a colorful chart on the bathroom wall, and give him a sticker to put on the chart every time he brushes his teeth. After a certain number of stars, he can get a treat or a special day out.
5. Let her be a big girl. Some toddlers want to do it all on their own, so give her the toothbrush and let her try to brush her teeth on her own. She may be more willing to let you finish the brushing up at the end and you can rest assured that most of her teeth are cleaned.
6. Enlist the help of stuffed animals. Toddlers learn by modeling, so bring in his favorite teddy bear and "brush" the bear's teeth before your son brushes his. That way, he won't feel left out.

Tips & Warnings

• Most children won't be able to brush their teeth on their own for several years yet, so be patient and enjoy the time you have with your toddler teaching her about good dental hygiene.
• Always choose toothpaste that's fluoride-free and safe to swallow.