How To Teach Children To Clean Their Teeth

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, with the number of children needing hospital treatment for tooth decay on the rise, I’m sharing my top tips for how to teach children to clean their teeth.

With the number of children needing hospital treatment for tooth decay on the rise, it’s clear that dental health is a growing concern for parents everywhere. As the mother of two grubby chocolate and sweets loving monsters, I’ve seen firsthand how challenging it can be to instill good oral hygiene habits in kids. I’ve been battling with shower dodging, tooth brush avoiding, hair brush haters for my entire parenting life, and I’m pretty well adjusted to the high levels of vigilance needed to combat this behaviour.

This isn’t a small problem. Salford Council’s annual public health report revealed that 33.6% of children under the age of five showed signs of tooth decay, with an average of two decayed teeth per child. This follows shortly after it was reported that the average number of children in the UK who have had to have teeth extracted due to decay has risen by 17%.

The good news? It doesn’t have to be a battle! In this post, with the help of Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice, I’m sharing my top tips for teaching children to clean their teeth effectively—practical, fun, and stress-free ideas to help keep those little smiles healthy and bright.

How To Teach Children To Clean Their Teeth

Introduce a teeth cleaning routine as early as possible

Introducing a teeth-cleaning routine as early as possible is a highly effective way to teach children to brush their teeth because it leverages the power of habit formation and sets a foundation for lifelong oral health. Here’s why it works so well:

First, young children are naturally adaptable and eager to learn. When you start a teeth-cleaning routine early—ideally as soon as their first tooth appears—they quickly accept it as a normal part of their day, much like eating or sleeping. This early exposure turns brushing into a non-negotiable habit rather than a chore they resist later on. Research shows that habits formed in early childhood are more likely to stick, meaning they’re more likely to carry this practice into adulthood.

Second, starting early helps children become comfortable with the process. For babies, wiping gums with a soft cloth or using a gentle baby toothbrush introduces the sensation of oral care without overwhelming them. As they grow, transitioning to a toothbrush and toothpaste feels like a natural progression rather than a sudden, unfamiliar task. This gradual approach builds confidence and reduces anxiety, making it easier for them to take ownership of brushing as they get older.

Finally, an early routine prevents problems before they start. Tooth decay is increasingly common in children, often requiring hospital treatment, but consistent brushing from a young age can significantly reduce this risk. By teaching them early, you’re not just showing them how to brush—you’re showing them why it matters, protecting their health and saving them (and you!) from painful dental issues down the road.

Introducing teeth brushing at a young age helps children to establish it as a regular part of their daily hygiene routines. Children learn by repetition and modelling, so starting the habit early – even before milk teeth have begun to show – sets the foundation for lifelong healthy oral care habits.

It also helps children become familiar with the process, reducing fear and anxiety associated with dental care and allowing them to develop a positive relationship with oral hygiene.

-Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice

Use a timer

Using a timer is a simple yet powerful tool for teaching children to brush their teeth effectively, and here’s why it works so well:

First, it ensures they brush for the right amount of time. Dentists recommend brushing for two minutes, twice a day, but kids often lack the attention span or understanding to gauge this on their own. A timer—whether it’s a fun hourglass, a phone app, or a toothbrush with a built-in buzzer—gives them a clear, concrete goal. Instead of guessing or rushing through, they learn to stick with it until the timer signals they’re done, building consistency and thoroughness into their routine.

Second, it turns brushing into a game, making it more engaging. Kids thrive on structure and play, and a timer adds an element of challenge or excitement. They might race against the clock or enjoy the anticipation of the “ding” at the end. This transforms a mundane task into something interactive, increasing their willingness to participate without nagging from parents.

Finally, it fosters independence and responsibility. With a timer, children don’t need constant supervision to know they’ve brushed long enough. It empowers them to take charge of their own oral hygiene, boosting their confidence and sense of accomplishment. Over time, this self-regulation helps the habit stick, even when the timer isn’t around.

A timer helps ensure that children are brushing their teeth for the recommended duration, which is typically two minutes. Kids may be more inclined to follow a thorough brushing technique when guided by a timer, and may be less distracted by things around them if focused on the seconds counting down.

Parents can use the timer to supervise their children, ensuring they brush for the recommended duration, even when doing it independently. Without a timer, children may rush through brushing, leading to inadequate cleaning and leaving plaque behind.

-Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice

Make it fun

Making teeth-cleaning fun is a game-changer when teaching children to brush their teeth, as it transforms a routine task into something they genuinely look forward to. Here’s why and how this approach works so well:

Kids are naturally drawn to play and enjoyment, so infusing fun into brushing taps into their instincts and keeps them engaged. When they associate oral hygiene with positive feelings, they’re far more likely to stick with it willingly—no battles or bribes needed. The key is to get creative and tailor the experience to their interests.

One way to make it fun is through music or storytelling. Play their favorite song (aim for a two-minute one to double as a timer!) or invent a silly “toothbrush adventure” where they’re superheroes fighting off “sugar monsters.” This not only distracts them from any boredom but also makes the time fly by. Some parents even use apps or electric toothbrushes with interactive games that reward kids for brushing well.

Another trick is letting them choose their gear. A toothbrush featuring their favorite character—say, Spider-Man or a sparkly unicorn—combined with flavored toothpaste (like bubblegum or strawberry) turns the process into a treat. You could also set up a reward chart with stickers for every successful brushing session, building excitement and a sense of achievement.

Finally, brushing together as a family adds a social twist. Kids love mimicking adults, so turn it into a goofy group activity—make funny faces in the mirror, sing a brushing song, or have a “who can make the most foam” contest. This not only makes it entertaining but also shows them it’s a normal, shared part of life.

For younger children, brushing teeth can be a boring or monotonous task. Incorporating a game, or adding some fun to the routine, can therefore encourage kids to be more enthusiastic about the process.

You can start by letting your child pick out a toothbrush featuring their favourite cartoon character, superhero, or animal. As mentioned previously, you can also use a timer and challenge your child to brush their teeth for the entire two minutes each morning and night. Make it a race against the clock or see if they can beat their previous brushing time.

Another way to make the routine a more fun experience for kids is to play their favourite song or find one of the many YouTube videos online designed for the activity to play in the background as they brush. By doing so, you can encourage them to clean along to the music, creating a dance party in the bathroom.

There are also various interactive apps, like Brush Dj or Aquafresh Brush Time, which are available to guide children through the brushing process, featuring games, timers, and educational content.

-Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice

Use a mirror to ensure you’re getting every spot

Using a mirror to ensure you’re getting every spot is a practical and effective strategy for teaching children to brush their teeth thoroughly. Here’s why it’s such a valuable approach:

First, it gives kids a clear visual guide. Children often don’t have the spatial awareness or coordination to brush every tooth without help, especially those tricky back molars or hidden corners. A mirror lets them see exactly where the toothbrush is going, turning an abstract task into something concrete. They can watch the bristles move across the front, sides, and tops of their teeth, ensuring no spot gets missed.

Second, it makes the process interactive and educational. When kids look in the mirror, they’re not just brushing—they’re exploring their own mouth. You can point out different areas (“See those teeth in the back? Let’s get them!”) or show them how plaque looks before and after. This hands-on learning helps them understand why they need to cover every spot, building awareness of oral health in a way that sticks.

Finally, it adds an element of fun and accountability. Kids love checking themselves out—whether they’re making silly faces or pretending to be a dentist inspecting their work. The mirror becomes a tool for self-checking, encouraging them to take pride in a job well done. Over time, they develop the habit of being thorough without needing constant reminders.

A mirror allows you to see inside your child’s mouth from different angles, ensuring you can identify and reach all tooth surfaces, including those that are harder to see or reach directly.

Using a mirror can be a valuable educational tool for teaching children about proper brushing techniques and the importance of oral hygiene.

They can see first-hand how brushing removes food particles and plaque, getting them more invested in the process. Children may find using a mirror during brushing fun and engaging, as it allows them to participate in their own oral care routine, giving them a sense of independence.

-Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice

Encourage a consistent routine

Encouraging a consistent routine is a cornerstone of teaching children to brush their teeth effectively, and here’s why it’s so powerful:

First, consistency breeds habit. When kids brush at the same times every day—say, right after breakfast and before bed—it becomes an automatic part of their schedule, like putting on pajamas or eating dinner. Repetition wires their brains to expect and accept the task, reducing resistance over time. Studies show that habits take root faster when tied to regular cues, so linking brushing to daily events makes it second nature.

Second, it provides structure and predictability, which kids thrive on. Young children feel secure with routines because they know what’s coming next. A consistent teeth-cleaning schedule eliminates guesswork or negotiation—brushing isn’t optional; it’s just what happens at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. This reliability helps them transition from needing reminders to taking initiative themselves.

Finally, it sets them up for long-term success. Tooth decay is on the rise among kids, often due to sporadic or skipped brushing, but a steady routine combats that by ensuring their teeth get regular care. It’s not just about today’s clean mouth—it’s about instilling discipline and responsibility that protect their dental health for years to come.

When brushing becomes a predictable part of their daily routine, children are more likely to stick with it. Children who learn the importance of regular brushing will continue practising it into adulthood.

Choosing one routine and repeatedly doing it every morning (i.e., after breakfast) and evening (i.e. before a bedtime story), will ensure your kids are brushing correctly, and also can encourage them to start doing it independently.

Instilling a routine into your children’s lives can also help them outside oral hygiene. It provides them with stability, promotes self-regulation and supports their physical well-being in this instance.

-Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice

Make sure an adult is supervising

Making sure an adult is supervising is a critical step in teaching children to brush their teeth effectively, and here’s why it’s so important:

First, it ensures proper technique. Young kids often lack the dexterity or understanding to brush thoroughly—think quick swipes or missing entire sections like the back teeth. An adult watching can guide them, showing how to angle the brush, reach every surface, and use the right amount of toothpaste (a pea-sized dab for little ones). This hands-on coaching prevents bad habits from forming and sets them up for success as they grow.

Second, it keeps safety in check. Kids can get carried away—swallowing toothpaste, using too much, or even goofing off with the brush in ways that could hurt their gums. Supervision ensures they’re brushing safely and not turning it into unsupervised chaos. For younger children, especially under six, dentists recommend adults take an active role, like brushing for them first, then letting them try, to balance learning with care.

Finally, it reinforces accountability and encouragement. Kids might slack off or rush without oversight, but an adult’s presence signals that brushing matters. A quick “Great job!” or “Let’s get that spot you missed” boosts their confidence while keeping them on track. Over time, this support helps them transition to independence with a solid foundation.

To make it work, adults don’t need to hover—just be nearby. Stand at the sink together, brush alongside them, or peek in to check progress. For toddlers, take turns: you start, they finish. As they get older, supervision can lighten, but early on, it’s key.

Before you let your children start to take charge of their teeth-brushing routine, it’s important that they are supervised in the earlier years.

When an adult is watching over, they can offer guidance on how to properly brush and allow them to correct any mistakes in the child’s teeth brushing technique.

Supervision also allows adults to give the child praise and offer positive reinforcement, which reinforces good habits and promotes self-esteem and confidence.

-Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice

Lead by example

Leading by example is a powerful way to teach children to brush their teeth, and here’s why it’s so effective:

First, kids are natural imitators. They watch what adults do and love to copy—whether it’s how you tie your shoes or brush your teeth. When they see you brushing twice a day with enthusiasm, it sends a clear message: this is normal, important, and even enjoyable. Your actions speak louder than words, showing them that oral hygiene isn’t just a rule—it’s a priority for everyone.

Second, it creates a shared experience that builds connection. Brushing together turns a solo task into a family ritual. You can stand side by side at the sink, making silly faces in the mirror or chatting about the day while scrubbing away. This not only makes it fun but also normalizes the routine, reinforcing that it’s something everyone does— not just a “kid thing” they might resist.

Finally, it demonstrates good habits in action. Kids don’t automatically know how to brush for two minutes or hit every spot. By letting them watch you—moving the brush in small circles, reaching the back, spitting out toothpaste—you provide a live tutorial. They learn the how and why through your example, picking up techniques and attitudes they’ll carry forward.

To lead effectively, keep it visible and positive. Brush when they’re around, not behind closed doors, and show a little flair—maybe hum a tune or smile at your clean teeth in the mirror. If you slack off, they’ll notice that too, so consistency is key.

Leading by example taps into a child’s instinct to mimic, fosters togetherness, and models the right way to brush. It’s a quiet, powerful teaching tool that shapes their habits through what you do, not just what you say.

Children learn by observing the behaviour of adults and their caregivers. They watch how adults interact with each other, handle various situations, and perform everyday tasks. So when it comes to brushing your teeth, they will follow your lead.

That’s why it’s important to show your children how to properly look after their teeth, by brushing morning and night for approximately two minutes.

-Dr. Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practice

Conclusion

Teaching children to clean their teeth doesn’t have to be a struggle—it can be a fun, rewarding journey that sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. By starting early, using a timer, making it playful, checking every spot in the mirror, sticking to a routine, supervising with care, and leading by example, you’re giving them the tools to take charge of their oral health. With tooth decay on the rise, these simple steps are more important than ever. So grab that toothbrush, turn on their favorite tune, and watch them beam with pride as they master this essential skill—one brush at a time!

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