Did you know that dental decay is the most chronic childhood disease? Yep, more than half of all kids get cavities by age 5. From Jack Ringer, DDS, president elect for the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, three kid brushing tips that really work.

Use tech. Your kid is already an iPad fanatic, so transfer that passion to teeth brushing. Play a two-minute kid-friendly video while he brushes. Two minutes is optimal since it takes that long for debris to be removed and fluoride to be absorbed into the teeth.

Make it a duet. Young children mirror what their parents do. So switch up your own dental routine to brush with your kid. You can add in some extra fun, too. Use a cute timer, play visual Simon Says, brush to music. Everything’s better together.

Be upbeat. Skip scare tactics like “If you don’t brush you’re going to the dentist!” Instead, use positive reinforcement for good oral hygiene practices, such as stickers or extra tech time. Just skip the sugary rewards!