Why Does My Autistic Child Refuse to Brush Their Teeth?

Tooth brushing can be difficult when the toothbrush, toothpaste taste, vibration, smell, or feeling inside the mouth is uncomfortable. Your child may also dislike the unpredictability or feel they have little control over the routine. Try a softer toothbrush, milder toothpaste, a simple visual sequence, and small choices such as which toothbrush to use or who brushes first. Practice for short periods and build up gradually. Supporting the sensory difficulty first can make brushing more manageable than treating it as simple refusal.