Getting children to brush their teeth regularly—and thoroughly—can feel like a daily battle for many parents. But what if the secret to success isn’t more reminders, but the right kind of encouragement? A recent study published in Child Development suggests that children are more likely to brush their teeth, and spend more time doing it, when parents use praise effectively.
This finding highlights a simple but powerful way to support your child’s oral health routine and help them develop habits that last a lifetime.
What the Study Found
The study, conducted by researchers observing parent–child interactions, revealed that the type of praise given plays an important role in a child’s motivation. Children who were praised with process-based feedback, such as “I like how carefully you’re brushing,” were more likely to brush for longer and return to brushing without being prompted later on. On the other hand, generic praise like “Good job” was less impactful in encouraging long-term habits.
The takeaway? It’s not just about praising your child—it’s about praising the effort and technique they use while brushing.
Why Praise Matters in Oral Health
Toothbrushing can feel like a chore to kids, especially when they don’t fully understand the importance of oral health. Praise provides positive reinforcement, helping children associate brushing with feelings of accomplishment rather than resistance. Over time, this positive connection can lead to greater independence and consistency in their daily routines.
Parents often underestimate the influence their words have. By offering specific praise, you’re not only boosting your child’s confidence but also teaching them what effective brushing looks like.
Tips for Using Praise Effectively
Putting this research into practice doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few ways to encourage your child while building better brushing habits:
- Focus on effort and technique: Say things like, “You’re doing a great job reaching the back teeth” or “I like how thorough you’re being.”
- Be specific: Highlight what they’re doing well so your child knows what behavior to repeat.
- Stay consistent: Make praise part of your daily brushing routine so your child learns to expect positive reinforcement.
- Model good habits: Brush alongside your child and praise your own effort to show that everyone values good oral care.
By turning toothbrushing into a positive experience, you’re setting the stage for lifelong healthy habits.
Encouraging Lifelong Oral Health
The findings from this study are encouraging for parents who want to support their children’s health in simple, everyday ways. Effective praise is a low-cost, easy-to-implement strategy that can make brushing more enjoyable and consistent for kids. Combined with regular dental visits and preventive care, this approach can help children build a strong foundation for oral health well into adulthood.
About the Practice
Dr. Rullo at Hamilton Pediatric Dental Care is committed to helping children develop healthy smiles from an early age. From teaching kids good oral hygiene and preventative care to treating dental issues whenever they arise, we’ve built a dynamic community for our littlest patients to thrive.
Call us at (972) 364-7472 or request an appointment online.