What do you do when your child refuses to brush their teeth?

There are many reasons why the little ones don't like to
brush their teeth. Many parents have questions and say things like,
"What do you do when your child refuses to brush their teeth?"
and "help little one just won't brush their teeth"

Toddlers tend to take control of what's theirs. In this case, their mouth.

But there are a few ways to get your reluctant toddler to scrub their pearly whites. Toddlers don't like to stand still. They have to be constantly on the move.
So in their mind, 2 minutes of brushing can seem eternal.

• Get them involved:
  Have them pick out their favorite color toothbrushes at
  your general store of choice.
• Let them lead the way!
  If they are the ones holding the toothbrush,
  they feel more in control.
  Stay aware that they make a mess and that's normal. Kids are not proficient in
  brushing until they reach the ages of 7 - 8.
• Supervise how much toothpaste goes onto the toothbrush
  and the activity of brushing.
• Singing a cute children's song while they do it may help make it fun.
• Standing behind them in front of a mirror or embracing them
  can help give them a sense of security. If they can't see the mirror,
  use a stepping stool if needed. This helps them see everything
  going on rather than blindly waiting on the activity.

The "Deep Pressure technique"
Pressing firmly on their shoulder can keep your child grounded
and can keep them calm especially when their teeth are sensitive.

Is my toddler refusing to brush their teeth due to pain?
What to do?

It's very possible that their teeth are sensitive.
Don't be alarmed. This does not require a diagnosis of any sort.
Simply ask them if they don't like brushing their teeth.
If it's no. Ask them why.

But here's a little winning tip.
Don't ask them when their emotions are up.
They most likely will answer with bias.

Your tot can surprise you with their response.
Once you know why they don't like it, you can move forward from there.

Is your child a picky eater. It's a clue.
When a child is a picky eater, it means they are sensitive to textures. The feel of the brush alone may be the reason why they don't want to brush.

What if my toddler child doesn't like the taste?
Introducing to them another flavor may come in handy.
If they are involved in picking it out, it may
make things go smoother.

• Your toddler may then get excited when it's time to brush because
  the flavor they chose is fun.
• On the next visit, ask your dentist to help
  explain why brushing is good and (hint: fun )
• Characters can play an important role.
  Characters like Disney princesses and Spiderman play big roles
  in making tots feel more comfortable and at ease.
  It feels like they're not alone in this journey.
• Also having a favorite toy or stuffed animal near
  can give a sense of security and comfortability.
• Practice makes perfect! Well, not really but it helps.
  you can make things fun for your toddler by giving them
  an extra toothbrush for them to practice on a doll
  and supervising them.
• The Toothpaste battle avoidance
  If your little one doesn't want the toothpaste,
  you can use just plain water in the meantime as you gradually
  try again later to get them used to toothpaste.

More Character Examples:

The act of brushing is more important than the toothpaste battle.
- The laughing technique.
Your toddler can fall into some giggling
from you brushing their nose or chin and making it look
like an accident. Oops. That doesn't go there.

• While practicing on a doll, you can make a joke about the
  doll using a hairbrush to brush its teeth.
  Ask your child if that's right. They will tell you
  it's supposed to be a toothbrush

Sensory Activities before brushing. The "Sensory Diet technique"
When a child is active, they can tire out or slow down
after a while. Having them be active before bath time
and brushing can make them more toleratable to
brushing their teeth especially when they
are sensitive.

• Use a routine.
  Having a routine can ensure the consistency of brushing their teeth
  as well as promoting good habits.
• Brush in the morning after waking up.
• Brush after a bath or before bedtime.
• 5 - 10 minute reminders can be helpful
• Have a special song or a few different ones to sing
  while they brush, before or after.
• Maybe singing a victory song afterward can help.

We hope that this helps with your reluctant tot.

If your tot is still reluctant, you can always sing a song while having
an exciting visit to the dentist.
Our experienced, caring, and dedicated Children's general team of
dentists and hygienists are looking forward to providing
comprehensive dental and gentle care for your child.
Please contact us for an appointment.