How to Brush Your Toddler's Teeth

Brushing your toddler's teeth can be extremely challenging. Some toddlers like to suck on the toothbrush, while others run away as soon as they hear the words, "brush your teeth." The trick is to make it fun.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toddler Toothbrushes
• Toddler Toothpaste
• Stickers

1. Purchase toddler toothpaste, preferably with no saccharin, and a toddler toothbrush.

2. Tell your toddler that all of his "friends" need to be brushed.

3. When his mouth is open, say "hello" to all of the "friends."

4. Make brushing fun - giggle and laugh while you're brushing the teeth.

5. Tell your toddler he's a big boy for brushing his teeth.

6. Show him how to spit in the sink.

7. Clap and encourage your toddler for a job well done.

8. Give him a sticker for each successful toothbrushing session - it works!

Tips & Warnings

• Tell your toddler that his favorite cartoon character loves brushing his teeth as well.
• If you have an older child, use him or her as a model for your toddler.
• Make toothbrushing time a daily family activity.
• Avoid toothpaste with saccharin.
• If your child complains of a toothache, consult a dentist.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a dentist or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.

[c8tesmom]

on 1/23/2009 Thanks to everyone for the ideas! Our daughter is just shy of 2, and used to like brushing ...up until this past month when we noticed a couple more new teeth coming in. We'll try anything at this point!

[toddleratplay]

on 8/31/2008 Thanks for the tips...I'll need to try out some of these tips out with my toddler!

[toddleratplay]

on 8/31/2008 I'll have to try some of these tips with my toddler...thanks!

- http://www.toddleratplay.com

on 3/23/2006 Use only a pea-size amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush. If your child can't spit yet, wipe out their mouth with a damp washcloth.

on 11/22/2005 Every night we brush our teeth together. My toddler hands out the brushes and squeezes the tooth paste (if it's too much we just shake it off when she is not watching). We make sure she gets up teeth and down teeth. If there is a lot of resistance, then dad holds her in his arms (like a bride) while she hangs her head down, looking into the mirror while I brush her teeth quickly. When she was younger we could literally hold her upside down by her feet for a few seconds to quickly brush all the teeth.