How do I help my child with tooth brushing when they hate it? 

Parenting Perspective 

Understanding the Sensory Challenge 

Tooth brushing can be one of the hardest parts of daily care for children with sensory sensitivities or special educational needs (SEN). The taste of toothpaste, the feeling of bristles, and the buzzing of an electric brush can all feel overwhelming. If your child fights, gags, or cries at the sight of the toothbrush, know that you are not alone. 

Identify the Issue and Explore Options 

Start by finding out what bothers them most. Is it the taste? Try flavourless or mild toothpaste. Is it the texture? Test soft-bristled brushes or silicone finger brushes.¹ Some children prefer electric toothbrushes because the vibration is predictable, while others hate it. Let your child explore the options so they feel more in control. 

Turn it into a Calm, Shared Routine 

Turn tooth brushing into a calm routine.² Use visuals or a simple song so they know what to expect: ‘Up and down, side to side, spit and rinse!’ Let them brush your teeth first, or brush together in a mirror; modelling makes it feel like a shared activity, not a battle. Give choices: ‘Do you want to brush first, or shall I?’ or ‘Which toothbrush shall we use tonight?’ 

Practical Tips and Seeking Help 

For children who gag easily, try brushing at different times of day, when they are more relaxed. Some families find brushing in the bath or with a distraction like a toy helps.³ Keep sessions short and stop if your child is distressed; forcing it only builds fear. If you struggle despite your best efforts, speak with a dentist who understands sensory needs. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam reminds us that cleanliness is part of faith, but so is gentleness in how we care for ourselves and others. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 286: 

‘Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear…‘

This Ayah reassures you that Allah Almighty sees every effort, even the small ones that feel exhausting. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ loved cleanliness and encouraged the use of the Miswak for fresh breath and healthy teeth. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 887, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘If I had not found it hard for my Ummah, I would have ordered them to clean their teeth with the Miswak for every prayer.‘

This shows how highly he ﷺ valued oral hygiene, but also that he did not command hardship. 

Make a gentle Dua: ‘O Allah Almighty, make tooth brushing easy and calm for my child.’ Remind your child that cleaning their teeth is a small way to honour the body Allah Almighty gave them. 

With your patient understanding, creative ideas, and trust in Allah Almighty’s mercy, you can help your child build a routine that works for them, showing them that even the hardest tasks can be done with kindness, love, and hope