Getting kids excited about brushing their teeth isn’t always easy. If you’ve ever had to negotiate, bribe, or beg your child to brush, you’re not alone. But what if brushing didn’t feel like a chore at all? What if it became something your kids actually looked forward to doing?
At Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX, we know that developing strong oral hygiene habits early is key to a lifetime of healthy smiles. The trick is making dental care engaging, playful, and age-appropriate—so brushing becomes part of your child’s routine in the most positive way possible.
Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you turn brushing and flossing into a fun, rewarding experience for your kids.
Let Them Pick Their Own Tools
Kids love having choices—and letting them pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste gives them a sense of ownership over their dental routine. Whether it’s a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character or a toothpaste flavor like bubblegum or watermelon, these small choices can turn brushing into something to get excited about.
Opt for a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste approved for their age. If your child is under 3, use just a smear of toothpaste; for older kids, a pea-sized amount is perfect.
Use Music or a Brushing App
Two minutes can feel like forever to a kid—unless you make it fun. Play a favorite song that lasts two minutes to help them brush for the recommended time, or use a kid-friendly brushing app like Brush DJ or Disney Magic Timer. These apps often include timers, fun animations, and rewards for consistency, turning brushing into a mini-game.
You can even create a special “toothbrushing playlist” that becomes part of the daily routine. Dance parties + clean teeth? Yes, please!
Make It a Family Activity
Kids learn by watching, and brushing together is a great way to model good habits. Turn your morning or evening routine into a family brushing session so your child can see that brushing is important for everyone—not just kids.
Take it a step further by turning it into a mini competition: who can brush in the most creative pattern? Who can get the most bubbles? Make it silly and lighthearted, and your child will associate brushing with fun and quality time.
Turn It Into a Story or Game
Tap into your child’s imagination. Create a story where the toothbrush is a superhero fighting off “sugar bugs,” or invent a brushing challenge where they must save the “tooth kingdom” from plaque. Some parents even name the toothbrush and turn it into a character in a nightly story.
Games and storytelling keep kids engaged, focused, and more likely to participate without resistance.
Use a Reward Chart
For kids who are motivated by achievements, a brushing chart can be a powerful tool. Give them a sticker for every morning and night they brush their teeth without being asked. Once they collect a certain number of stickers, reward them with a non-sugar-based prize—like picking a movie, staying up a few extra minutes, or choosing a new book.
Consistency builds habit, and rewards keep motivation high.
Read Books or Watch Shows About Dental Health
There are lots of great children’s books and shows that teach the importance of brushing and visiting the dentist. Characters like the Berenstain Bears, Daniel Tiger, and Peppa Pig have fun dental episodes that show brushing in a relatable, positive way.
Reading or watching these together reinforces your message while giving your child examples of other kids (or cartoon animals!) who take care of their teeth too.
Visit a Kid-Friendly Dentist
Sometimes the biggest motivator is having a dental team that makes your child feel safe, encouraged, and excited about their smile. At Pickett Family Dental, we specialize in gentle, fun dental care for kids. We explain everything in kid-friendly terms, celebrate milestones, and help build trust so every visit is something they look forward to—not fear.
Starting dental visits early and maintaining regular checkups helps normalize the experience and connects the importance of at-home care to real-life benefits.
Smile Habits Start Young
The earlier you make brushing and flossing fun, the more likely your child is to maintain these habits into adulthood. With the right mix of creativity, consistency, and encouragement, you can turn brushing time from a struggle into a smile-filled success.
If you’re looking for more tips—or need a friendly dental home for your little one—Pickett Family Dental in Keller, TX is here to help. Schedule your child’s visit today and let’s work together to keep those little teeth shining bright!
