Tooth brushing issues

My daughter HATES brushing her teeth and will not let me get in there. We’ve tried it all - make it a fun game with a song, brushing together, brushing her stuffies, etc. and she still kicks and screams…any advice here? She gets black marks on her teeth and I just want to get a good cleaning without a fight.
Like
Share Mobile
Share
  • Share

Show your support

It is a huge fight for me as well. I have to have his dad hold him and I literally have to force it and I feel so bad but ultimately the child will suffer later at the dentist if we don’t. I saw a tiktok that said would you rather have to force it for a minute or two a day or have to hold them down for forty at the dentist if they get cavities

My daughter loves it.. I’m not sure what I did but I give her her tooth brush. She messes around tries to brush and chews on it. Then I take it after a few mins and actually brush it- this is when she’ll fuss a little but never enough for it to hinder the process.

that sounds super frustrating! have you tried letting her pick out her own toothbrush or toothpaste? sometimes just letting them feel like they have a say can help a bit. here's what the 'Heal App' says.... "It sounds really challenging to manage your daughter's resistance to brushing her teeth, especially with the black marks you're noticing. One effective approach is to try a different toothbrush, perhaps one with a character she loves or one that lights up, to make it more appealing. You could also consider using a flavored toothpaste that she enjoys, as this might make the experience more pleasant for her. Additionally, establishing a consistent routine where she has some control, like choosing the toothbrush or toothpaste, can help her feel more involved. If she's still resistant, you might want to try using a damp cloth to wipe her teeth gently instead of a toothbrush, which can help keep her teeth clean while reducing the struggle. Have you noticed if there are sp

My baby seems to like the strawberry toothpaste flavor and she’s eager to brush her teeth because of it. in the process I guide her. But it’s not consistent. Once a day for sure though.

Do you brush your teeth in front of her? Try modeling it for a few days to a week and then invite her back to the activity. Maybe setting up a Montessori self care station could help as well so she can start to feel in control and build a sense of responsibility about it.

Read more on Peanut