How can i get 3 year old to brush his teeth?

[onceipopicantstop]

Just after some tips on getting 3 yr old DS to brush his teeth regularly. Up until a few months ago he used to love brushing his teeth but now its become a twice daily battle! I have no idea why things have changed and he can't explain why he doesn't want to, but I'm beginning to dread teeth cleaning time!! We have tried various tactics including different toothpaste (including strawberry flavoured!) and a battery operated brush - hoping the novelty would help. At the moment I am resorting to no bedtime story unless he's cleaned his teeth. And if he refuses in the morning he is not allowed any treats, puddings etc. during the day. I have even told him his teeth will fall out if he doesn't brush them! - which I now feel guilty about as he's really too little to understand or worry about this .

Any other ideas? Is this just a phase?

[Chocotrekkie]

Has he got a favourite toy - "teddy" brushing his teeth rather than mummy might help ?? Only problem then is they have to spend ages deciding what toy was brushing them today....

[zebedeethezebra]

Threaten to use the electric toothbrush. Works every time with DS!

[dragonflymama]

We use a reward chart on back of bedroom door to go through all bedtime jobs (coming up when asked first time, bath, hair wash, teeth, wee, pjs, going to bed alone, staying in bed all night, dry pull up, etc). It works a treat with the present on top of the wardrobe as an incentive. Good luck!

[TumbiGirl]

I showed DD3 a few photos of decaying teeth on Google images and she was pretty horrified as to what might happen if you don't brush your teeth. (If you go down this path check the images first though as they can be pretty graphic.)

[Meglet]

I still have to head lock my 4yo to do her teeth. She knows it has to be done but she isn't a willing participant.

If it's any consolation my 6yo doesn't moan about teeth brushing anymore. He does a couple of minutes and I do a minute.

[PacificDogwood]

Ha! I asked my dental hygienist this exact question today . Her reply? 'Just persevere'...

Why is your DS doing it? For the same reason a dog licks his bollocks: because he can. It is a way to assert HIS will which he has just discovered he can do. It'll pass...

If it is any consoloation, my DS4 aged 3 and 1 week is like this currently. His 3 older brothers all brush their teeth without much fuss.