Getting your child to brush their teeth can sometimes feel like a daily battle, but there are positive, step-by-step strategies you can use to make the process smoother and more successful. First, stay calm and patient. Power struggles often make the situation worse, so avoid turning brushing into a punishment or argument. Instead, treat it like a routine expectation—just like putting on shoes or washing hands.

Start by identifying why your child resists brushing. Is it the taste of the toothpaste, the feel of the brush, or a sensory sensitivity? Understanding what’s behind the refusal can help guide your approach. Try offering choices to give your child a sense of control, such as picking their toothbrush color, choosing between two toothpaste flavors, or deciding whether to brush before or after getting dressed. Letting them have a say can reduce resistance and increase cooperation.

Make brushing fun by turning it into a game or using visuals. You can sing a song, use a timer, play a short video, or follow a brushing chart with stickers as a reward. Many children respond well to routines with structure and visual support. Model the behavior by brushing your own teeth alongside your child—kids love to imitate adults.

If your child still refuses, start small. Begin by having them hold the toothbrush or brush a stuffed animal’s teeth. Gradually build up to tolerating the toothbrush in their mouth. Reinforce every small step with praise and encouragement: “Great job holding your toothbrush!” or “I love how you brushed your bear’s teeth!” Celebrate progress, no matter how small.

Consistency is key, so stick with your routine daily, even if some days are harder than others. If your child has ongoing difficulty due to sensory challenges or behavioral resistance, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can help. ABA therapy can break the task down into manageable steps and use positive reinforcement to build long-term independence with toothbrushing.

Remember, brushing teeth is a skill that takes time to learn. With the right support, creativity, and patience, your child can build healthy dental habits for life.