Helping Your Child Build Healthy Dental Habits

As a parent, you know how challenging it can be to get your child to brush their teeth—especially before bed. If your mornings are filled with stalling and complaints or your evenings end in brushing battles, you're not alone. The good news is that with the right routines, you can make brushing a natural part of your child’s day, setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Creating a Strong Morning Routine

The best time for your child to brush their teeth in the morning is after breakfast. Brushing in the morning helps remove plaque and food debris that build up overnight and clears away any sugars or acids from breakfast that could harm their enamel.

Make sure your child brushes for at least two minutes and covers all tooth surfaces. If they need help, guide them through the process to ensure a thorough clean. If mornings feel rushed, try waking them up just 10 minutes earlier to give them enough time for proper oral care before heading off to school.

Establishing a Soothing Bedtime Routine

A consistent nighttime routine not only helps with sleep but also reinforces good dental habits. The “Brush, Book, Bed” routine, recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), is a great way to make brushing a natural part of winding down for the night.

• Brush: Before bed, remind or assist your child in brushing and flossing to remove the day’s buildup of plaque and food particles.
• Book: After brushing, read a bedtime story together. This not only encourages bonding and language development but also prevents snacking before bed, giving their teeth time to remineralize overnight.
• Bed: A consistent bedtime helps with overall health, ensuring your child gets the rest they need.

Encouraging Your Child to Stick with the Routine

Every child is different—some may resist new habits, while others may need extra motivation. Here are some tips to make dental care more enjoyable:

• Start small: Introduce changes gradually, focusing on one part of the routine at a time.
• Use positive reinforcement: Sticker charts or small rewards can help encourage consistency.
• Let them make choices: Allow your child to pick out their toothbrush or a fun song to brush along with.
• Involve them: Talk about why brushing is important and let them have a say in their routine.
• Be consistent: Sticking to the routine every day, even on weekends, helps make it a lasting habit.
• Adapt as they grow: Modify the routine as your child gains independence and their needs change.

Helping Your Child Enjoy a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

Building solid dental habits now will benefit your child for years to come. Our team at Fairview Family Dental in Brantford, Ontario, is here to support you with guidance on brushing techniques, nutrition tips, and preventive care to keep their smile healthy and bright.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, we’re happy to help. Let’s work together to give your child the gift of a lifetime—a healthy, confident smile!