Back-to-school season is officially here! As routines shift from summer freedom to busy mornings and homework-filled evenings, it’s easy for healthy habits—like teeth brushing and flossing—to slip through the cracks. But this time of year is actually perfect for hitting reset on your child’s oral care routine.

If brushing feels more like a battle than a breeze in your household, don’t worry. We’ve gathered some creative ways to help kids get excited about brushing again this school year.

1. Make Brushing Part of the School Routine

Kids thrive on structure, especially during the school year. Linking brushing to specific morning and bedtime tasks makes it easier to remember and helps your child feel a sense of accomplishment.

Have brushing come right after breakfast and right before story time or bedtime. The more automatic it becomes, the fewer reminders you’ll need to give.

You may also want to post a fun daily checklist in the bathroom that includes brushing, flossing, and even mouthwash if your child uses it. Let them cross off each step. It adds a small sense of control that can make a big difference.

2. Turn Brushing Into a Game (Yes, Really!)

When brushing is boring, kids resist. But when it’s fun? You’ll have no trouble getting those teeth cleaned. There are free and kid-friendly apps like Brush DJ, Disney Magic Timer™, or Chomper Chums® that play music while kids brush. Most are designed to last the full two minutes, keeping them engaged the whole time.

3. Use a Brushing Chart With Rewards

Positive reinforcement works wonders, especially with young children. A brushing chart gives them a visual sense of progress, and a reward gives them a goal to work toward.

Use a simple calendar-style chart and let your child place a sticker each time they brush. After a week or two of consistent brushing, let them trade in their stickers for a small prize, like picking the movie for family night or choosing a new toothbrush design.

While treats are tempting, try rewards that don’t involve sugar. Think temporary tattoos, fun erasers, or a new book.

4. Let Kids Pick Their Own Brushing Tools

Kids are much more likely to use a toothbrush they helped choose. The same goes for toothpaste, flossers, and even cups for rinsing.

Give them options too. Let your child choose their toothbrush from a selection of kid-friendly colors or characters. For older children, an electric toothbrush with a timer might feel more “grown-up” and tech-savvy.

There are also plenty of flavors of toothpaste besides mint. Think bubblegum, strawberry, or even mild cinnamon. Just make sure it’s fluoride-based and approved by your dentist.

5. Lead by Example (and Brush Together When You Can)

Kids copy what they see. If they see brushing is important to you, they’re more likely to make it important to them too.

Make brushing a family routine when possible, even if it’s just for the evening session. You can model proper technique and timing and maybe even make a game out of it.

Also, be sure to tell your child how brushing helps their teeth stay strong, their smile stay bright, and their breath stay fresh. Avoid language that sounds like a chore—focus on the benefits, not just the task.

Helping kids build healthy habits doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right tools, a little creativity, and a lot of encouragement, teeth brushing can actually become something they look forward to. If you need more ideas or want to schedule a back-to-school cleaning, we’re here for you.

Call Saratoga Dental Care at 408-533-0086 for an appointment in Saratoga, CA or request an appointment online.