Dr. Kami Hoss Shares Fun and Interactive Activities to Teach Kids About Oral Hygiene
Getting kids to brush and floss can often feel like pulling teeth—pun intended. But it doesn’t have to be a battle! By turning oral hygiene into a fun and engaging activity, you can teach your children the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums, setting them up for a lifetime of healthy habits. Dr. Kami Hoss shares some creative ways to make brushing and flossing enjoyable for your little ones.

- Make it a Game
Kids love games, so why not turn brushing and flossing into a fun challenge? Use a timer to see who can brush for the full two minutes. Many kids’ electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers and fun music to make this easier. You can also create a reward system where they earn points or stickers for every day they brush and floss properly. At the end of the week, they can trade in their points for a small prize.
- Storytime Adventures
Turn brushing and flossing into an adventure with storytelling. Invent a story in which your child is the hero fighting off cavity monsters and plaque dragons. You can even create a series in which each night brings a new chapter in their quest for clean teeth. This not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also helps them understand why oral hygiene is important.
- Use Fun Tools
Kids are more likely to brush and floss if they have fun tools. Let them pick out their toothbrush with their favorite character or in their favorite color. There are also flavored toothpastes and flosses designed specifically for kids. Consider using an electric toothbrush, which can be more exciting for children due to its buzzing and spinning features.
- Brush Together
Children learn by example, so brush your teeth together. Make it a family activity where everyone brushes and flosses at the same time. This not only shows them that oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it also provides a bonding opportunity. To add some fun, you can make silly faces in the mirror or have a brushing dance party.
- Educational Videos and Apps
Numerous educational videos and apps teach kids about oral hygiene in an entertaining way. Many of these resources feature popular characters and fun songs that explain the importance of brushing and flossing. Some apps even have interactive games and progress trackers to encourage regular brushing.

- Create a Routine Chart
A visual routine chart can help children understand and remember their daily oral hygiene tasks. Include pictures of a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. Let your child check off each task as they complete it. This gives them a sense of accomplishment and reinforces the habit.
- Celebrate Milestones
Celebrate when your child reaches oral hygiene milestones, such as brushing consistently for a week or visiting the dentist without any cavities. Small celebrations can be a great motivator. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—simple acknowledgments like a special dessert, extra playtime, or a fun outing can go a long way.
- Read Books About Teeth
There are many children’s books about teeth and oral hygiene. Reading these books together can help your child understand the importance of taking care of their teeth. Titles like “The Tooth Book” by Dr. Seuss or “Brush, Brush, Brush!” by Alicia Padron can make learning about oral hygiene fun and relatable.
According to Dr. Kami Hoss, by incorporating these engaging activities into your child’s routine, you can make brushing and flossing a fun part of their day. Not only will this help them develop healthy habits, but it will also reduce the stress and resistance often associated with oral hygiene. Remember, the goal is to create positive associations with taking care of their teeth so they carry these habits into adulthood.

















