Orleans Dental Center

Five Tips for Teaching Kids Good Oral Hygiene

Creating a healthy smile starts at home—and the earlier your child learns proper dental habits, the better! At Orleans Dental Centre, we believe oral hygiene should be simple, fun, and empowering for kids of all ages. Here are five easy ways to teach your child how to care for their teeth—and love doing it.

1. Make Brushing a Family Activity

Children learn best by example. Brush your teeth alongside your child each morning and night to show them how it’s done. Turn it into a family routine that’s positive and predictable.

Need help with the basics? Explore our top toothbrushing tips for toddlers and kids for age-appropriate advice.

2. Use Tools That Make It Fun

A child-friendly toothbrush with their favorite character or a fun-flavored toothpaste can make a big difference. Add a two-minute timer, a toothbrushing song, or a sticker chart to help keep your child motivated and consistent.

3. Teach Through Play

Pretend play with a stuffed animal or a mirror can help toddlers understand brushing and flossing. Books and videos about dental care also reinforce learning in a way that’s engaging and relatable.

Looking to prevent early cavities? Check out our guide on how to help kids prevent cavities for simple, effective tips.

4. Make Regular Dental Visits a Habit

Routine checkups help normalize dental care and catch problems early. The more positive your child’s early experiences are, the more likely they are to maintain good oral hygiene as they grow.

Get a preview of what to expect at their visit in our article on your child’s first dental appointment .

5. Encourage and Celebrate Progress

Praise your child for brushing and flossing well—every little win counts! Consider using a reward system to celebrate consistency and milestones like cavity-free checkups.

We’re Here to Help Your Family Smile

At Orleans Dental Centre, we believe in building healthy habits through gentle, fun, and informative care. Contact us today to schedule your child’s next appointment. Together, we’ll create a strong foundation for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles.