Family Dental Hygiene 101: How to Instill Good Habits in Your Kids

Dr. Roger Tran • Oct 29, 2015

Poway has been rated as one of the top family-friendly cities to live in throughout Southern California. While the area is well known for its top-notch public schools and amenities, it is also home to highly reputable Poway family dental offices that treat dental conditions and even help keep teeth healthy and white.


Parents can help their children master things like dental hygiene to avoid cavities and to make for good checkups. Here are some great ways that you can help make good brushing and flossing a habit early in life so that your children do not suffer dental issues in adulthood.

Do a Fun Demonstration Using Visuals

Children are visual learners. You can try to give them direction, but in the end they are going to mimic what you do. If you play a show and tell game by brushing your teeth beside your child, they will learn the routine themselves. You can even use other types of visuals like books with fun, kid-friendly stories so that they want to practice good oral hygiene. With all of the smartphone apps and online games being developed, demonstrations and learning can be fun.

Sing a Song, Two Minutes Long

It often feels like you are brushing for much longer than you are. Any experienced dentist in Poway, CA will tell you that you need to brush for at least two minutes to get rid of all of the bacteria and buildup. To make the time pass, try singing a catchy tune. You can sing a nursery rhyme or make up your own song with your kids just as long as it lasts 2 minutes from start to finish.

Positive Reinforcement

Psychologists have found that using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior is an effective way to instill good habits that will be practiced later in life. Kids want approval and they also love to be rewarded. You can start a sticker chart, cheer your kids on, and have your child earn prizes so that they feel affirmed and they want to brush and floss daily.


While good dental care habits are important, it is also important to make it a habit to see the dentist for routine checkups. This will help you determine whether or not your child is using the right techniques and even the right toothbrush. Make regular appointments to see the dentist and they will appreciate how important it is to care for their teeth.


Source: 

Use Positive Reinforcement, FamilyEducation.com

DR. JUSTINE DOAN, DDS

General and Restorative Dentist

Dr. Justine Doan has considerable postgraduate training including a fellowship program and a year-long surgical externship in implantology. She was elected as one of the 40 Top Dentists Under 40 in the U.S. for 2015 by Incisal Edge magazine. Dr. Justene is a highly trained general dentist and focuses on dental implants and restorative cases.

DR. Janice DOAN, DDS

General and Cosmetic Dentist

Dr. Janice Doan practices general and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Janice received her Doctor of Dental Science degree from the University of Southern California. Since graduating, she has completed a number of continuing education programs in a variety of subjects. Dr. Janice was named a Top 40 Under 40 dentist by Incisal Edge magazine in 2015.

DR. Roger Tran, DDS

General, COsmetic & Restorative Dentist

Dr. Roger Tran practices general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. He graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California. Since graduating, he has received advanced training in many areas of dentistry. He has also volunteered through the Los Angeles County+USC Medical Center.

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