What to do when your child hates brushing their teeth. Raisingkids.co.uk's Dental Expert, Amanda O'Donnell, tackles a widespread problem.

Raisingkids member's problem
My 19-month-old toddler refuses now to even let me or his father put a toothbrush near his mouth. When I did actually manage to brush his teeth I praised him beyond belief, this eventually led to him just shutting his mouth completely. I have tried taking him into a different room to brush his teeth, as suggested in a previous question/answer. I bought him an electric toothbrush, this worked for a very short period of time, now he just, as toddlers do, wants to do it himself. I've also bought a soft toothbrush, hoping that this would make a difference. When he does do it himself, it really just consists of him sucking the toothpaste off the brush. Occasionally it's aimed towards the back teeth, but rarely. Help!

Dental expert's advice
This is a fairly common problem with toddlers and unfortunately perseverance is the only answer.

Stand behind him and brush the teeth as you would your own, maybe after he has had a go (Dad may have to help hold any waving arms). Try to make it into a game – some parents will do it at bath time and incorporate it into the whole cleaning process. Chewing on the brush will at least do something so do not despair! It is important to get him into a regular routine (as with all other things and toddlers) – the more it is left, the more prone he will be to dental decay.

Your toddler may also be teething so it may be a bit sore when brushing. So it's a good idea that you bought a soft toothbrush.