Creative Ways to Get Kids Excited About Oral Care
Getting kids to brush their teeth twice a day can feel like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to! As a trusted family dentist in SW Portland, Dr. Kim Hoang knows that turning oral care into a fun, positive experience can help children build lifelong healthy habits. With a little creativity and consistency, brushing time can become something they look forward to instead of something they resist.
Turn Brushing Into a Game
Kids love games—so why not make brushing one? Try setting a two-minute timer and challenging your child to “defeat the sugar bugs” before the timer runs out. There are also free apps with fun animations that keep kids brushing for the right amount of time.
Let Them Pick Their Tools
Give your child some ownership by letting them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste (with your guidance, of course). Whether it’s a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character or sparkly, kid-friendly toothpaste, the right tools can turn a chore into an adventure.
Use Music and Dance
Make brushing a mini dance party! Put on a favorite song that lasts about two minutes and encourage your child to brush along to the beat. You can even brush together; kids are more likely to follow through when they see you doing it too.
Create a Reward Chart
A colorful brushing chart with stickers can be a great motivator. Celebrate small wins like a full week of brushing twice a day. Choose simple, non-food rewards like a trip to the park or an extra bedtime story.
Read Books and Watch Videos About Brushing
There are plenty of children’s books and short videos that make brushing educational and fun. Characters they already know and love can help reinforce why taking care of oral health is so important.
Stay Positive and Supportive
The most important thing you can do is keep the experience positive. Be patient with your child as they learn and offer plenty of encouragement along the way. A little praise goes a long way, celebrating their efforts can boost their confidence and make brushing feel like a win instead of a chore.
Building Healthy Habits Starts at Home—and at the Dentist
Brushing routines at home are essential, but so are regular checkups with a trusted dental provider. At Terwilliger Dental, we’re proud to support families with our Child Plan. For $249 a year, your child receives:
- 2 Regular Dental Exams
- 2 Child Prophylaxis Cleanings
- Annual X-rays (2 Bitewing and 2 Periapical X-Ray)
- Panoramic X-ray (every 3 years, as needed)
- 2 Fluoride Treatments (if needed)
- 20% off all additional dental treatments
Ready to give your child a healthy smile they’ll be proud of? Schedule their next appointment with Terwilliger Dental today! We’re here to make dental care comfortable, fun, and stress-free for the whole family.