Teeth brushing for children with sensory needs

Brushing teeth can be hard for children with sensory processing differences.

But there are things you can do which can help.

Help make your child comfortable

Try to get your child to play with their toothbrush when it's not time to brush. They could pretend to brush the teeth of a doll or stuffed animal.

Let them hold and touch the toothbrush and toothpaste at their own pace.

Model the behaviour

Brush your teeth with your child. This shows them it is a normal, positive activity.

Use a mirror so they can see themselves brushing. This helps with visual feedback.

Gradual desensitisation

Start small and progress slowly. Begin by touching the toothbrush to their lips. Then touch their teeth without moving the brush.

Start brushing 1 or 2 teeth for a few seconds. Gradually increase brushing as they are able for more.

Start with finger toothbrushes or silicone brushes. They will feel softer and less invasive.

Use oral massage tools such as a baby training toothbrush or chewable tubes. You can buy these from a pharmacist or online. They can help to prepare the mouth for brushing.

Choosing a toothbrush for your child

Some children find electric toothbrushes with gentle vibrations calming.

Toothbrushes with smaller heads or silicone bristles may be more comfortable.

Fun toothbrushes with lights, music or favourite characters can increase motivation.

Which toothpaste to use

If mint flavours are too strong, try a toothpaste with a light flavour or no flavour.

Use a non-foaming toothpaste to reduce the sensory overload from bubbles.

Make teeth brushing fun and engaging

To make the routine engaging and fun, you can:

• use colourful timers or apps with animations, to track brushing time
• play a favourite song or brushing-themed songs
• use a sticker chart or tokens, for finishing toothbrushing
• offer praise or small rewards for trying new steps, such as brushing 1 more tooth

Sensory preferences

Address your child's sensory preferences early in the process.

These may include:

• temperature - some children prefer warm water, while others like cold
• pressure - let your child hold the toothbrush and guide the brushing, if it helps them feel more in control
• taste - try a few different flavours of toothpaste to find the right one
• smell - use odourless toothpaste if smells are a trigger

Prepare the child with sensory input

Before brushing use oral-motor warm-ups such as:

• drinking through a straw.
• chewing on crunchy or chewy foods - for example, carrots, apples, or chewy tubes
• blow bubbles or blow through a straw

Massage the jaw, cheeks, or lips to relax the oral muscles.

Deep pressure touch can be soothing and calming. Pay attention to your child's response when you do this, to make sure they are comfortable. You can also provide hugs or weighted objects.

During brushing

While brushing, give them a small toy or object to hold in their other hand, for example a sensory fidget. This can help them stay calm and make brushing easier.

Modify the routine to suit your child

Let your child stand or sit in a preferred position. For example, sitting on a stool or leaning against a wall.

Timing

Pick a time when your child is calm and more willing to try brushing. They do not have to brush right after they wake up or just before bed, if those times are hard.

Try brushing in short sessions during the day.

Work with your child

Let your child take turns with you during brushing.

Count together or make it a game. For example, brushing for 10 seconds on the top teeth.

Involve your child in the process

Let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste. This will give them a sense of control.

Allow them to “help” brush your teeth or a sibling’s teeth. This makes it a shared activity.

Use alternative methods temporarily

If traditional brushing is not possible:

• use a damp washcloth to gently wipe their teeth and gums
• rinse their mouth with water or a mouthwash that is safe for children

When resistance is strong

If your child is strongly resisting, things that can help are:

• breaking down the task
• giving them options
• distracting them

Break down the task

Focus on brushing one tooth or section per session.

Use a countdown, for example “we’ll brush for 5 seconds!”. Gradually increase the brushing time.

Give them options

Give your child options for when to brush their teeth or how. For example, before or after a bath or which toothbrush to use.

Distractions

Play a favourite show, video, or audio story on your phone for your child, while brushing.

See a dentist regularly

Your child should see a dentist regularly. Try to go to a dentist who has experience working with children with sensory processing differences.

Tell your dentist about your child’s sensory needs. They will be able to provide you with valuable tips.

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