Practical Tips and Tools For Brushing And Flossing
You’ve read the tips, bought the toothpaste, even tried making it a game… but brushing your toddler’s teeth still feels like wrestling a crocodile with a toothbrush.
You're not alone, and you're not doing it wrong.
Whether your little one clamps their mouth shut, gags at the toothbrush, refuses to sit still, or flat-out runs away, this guide was made for you.
Have children aged 1-5 years
Want to avoid traumatic toothbrushing experiences
Suspect there's more going on than just "bad behaviour"
Care about their children's overall health, not just clean teeth
Believe in calm, connected parenting (amongst the chaos)
Hi, I'm Mel!
I'm an Oral Health Therapist, Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist… and mother to a strong-willed toddler who did not care that I help other kids brush their teeth for a living.
I wrote this guide after realising that even with all my professional experience, what I really needed was a realistic, parent-friendly resource to help me get through the toddler toothbrushing chaos. And based on the daily conversations I have with other toddler parents, everyone else needs this too!
🦷 Brushing & Flossing Basics
What to do, when to start, and how much toothpaste to use.
🎉 Games & Fun Strategies
Real ideas that actually work.
🧠 Expert Knowledge in Everyday Language
Perfect for tired parents who want to feel informed without falling down a research rabbit hole.
🪥 Product Recommendations
From toddler-sized brushes to safe toothpastes.
🧐 Troubleshooting Tips
A deep dive into why some kids hate brushing (including mouth breathing and oral ties).
✨ Nervous System & Sensory Support
Why brushing can feel like a threat to some kids and what to do about it.
50+ page guide plus video demonstrations
A realistic, parent-friendly guide to brushing and flossing your toddler’s teeth. Packed with expert tips, visual step-by-step instructions, product picks, and gentle strategies to support even the most resistant little ones.
No confusing jargon
No pressure to be perfect
Just practical advice that actually works
This isn’t just about finding the “one magic trick" that will solve everything. It’s also about understanding why brushing can be a struggle and giving you practical ways to make progress.
No. I share clear recommendations for brushes, floss, and toothpaste so you know exactly what to look for, but you won’t need to buy a cupboard full of extras.
Oral Hygiene For Toddlers is designed with toddlers aged 1–5 in mind, but many of the strategies can be adapted for older kids too. The focus is on creating confident routines and understanding the “why” behind brushing challenges, which often applies well beyond toddlerhood.
If you have questions about your child’s dental health or oral function, you can explore more in our FAQs or get in touch via our contact form.