Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 5 minutes
As kids grow, their routines change. School schedules get busier, independence increases, and parents naturally step back. Somewhere along the way, tooth brushing is rushed, flossing gets skipped, and dental care starts to slide.
We provide dental care for the whole family at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden. We proudly accept Medicaid and make quality dental care accessible for every child.
| Dental and Vision Care in One Convenient Location At our Denver and Aurora locations, Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics and Youth Vision are conveniently located in the same building. This means your child can receive both dental and vision care at one familiar location, without extra travel or scheduling stress. |
Table of Contents
Understand Why Bad Dental Habits Started
Habits do not usually change overnight. As kids grow older, busy routines and shifting priorities can cause brushing and flossing to become inconsistent.
Common reasons include:
- Tight mornings and late nights
- Sensitivity from braces
- Forgetfulness or low motivation
- Unclear expectations at home
A calm, straightforward conversation can help identify where the routine is breaking down. Ask what feels most difficult about brushing or flossing, and listen without judgment. When kids feel understood, they are more likely to participate in improving their routine.
If habits such as teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects develop, a dentist or pediatrician can help determine whether stress or another underlying issue may be contributing.
Explain the “Why” in a Way Older Kids Care About
Older kids respond better to clear, relevant explanations than vague warnings. Instead of focusing only on the future, connect habits to what affects them now.
Poor brushing technique can lead to:
- Bad breath
- Yellowing or stained teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Cavities caused by tooth decay
You can also explain how skipping care increases the risk of gum disease over time. Keep explanations straightforward and age-appropriate so kids understand how their choices affect their smile today.
Replace Bad Habits With Better Alternatives
Breaking a habit works best when you offer a replacement. Removing something without an alternative often creates frustration.
Helpful swaps include:
- Replacing sugary drinks with water or flavored, sugar-free options
- Offering crunchy fruits and vegetables instead of sticky snacks
- Introducing a water flosser for kids who dislike traditional floss
Small changes make it easier to stick with healthier choices and reinforce positive oral hygiene habits.
Set Clear Expectations and Stay Consistent
Even as kids seek independence, they still need structure. Clear expectations reduce arguments and guesswork.
Effective strategies include:
- Set consistent morning and nighttime routines
- Make flossing part of the bedtime checklist
- Keep fluoride toothpaste easily accessible
- Link privileges to responsibility rather than punishment
Consistency helps kids understand that brushing and flossing are non-negotiable parts of daily life and supports the development of healthy habits.
Use Positive Reinforcement Instead of Constant Reminders
Praise works better than pressure. Notice effort and consistency instead of focusing only on what gets missed.
Positive reinforcement can include:
- Verbal praise for sticking to routines
- Letting kids choose their own toothbrush, toothpaste flavor or an electric toothbrush
- Celebrating cavity-free dental visits
Encouragement builds confidence and helps kids feel proud of taking care of their teeth.
Keep the Dentist Part of the Conversation
Regular dental visits reinforce what happens at home and often carry extra weight for older kids. Hearing guidance directly from a dentist can help things click in a way that feels more personal and less like a reminder from a parent.
During appointments, encourage your child to ask questions, talk honestly about their routine, and take more ownership of their daily care. Dentists can explain how everyday habits protect teeth and support long-term oral health in clear, age-appropriate terms that kids understand and remember.
Helping Good Habits Stick for the Long Term
Improvement takes time. Progress often comes in small steps as kids balance school, activities, and growing independence. Stay patient and focus on setting them up for success rather than expecting perfection. The goal is a routine that feels natural, consistent, and sustainable.
If your child struggles with brushing or consistency, support from a dentist can make a real difference. Regular visits help reinforce routines and catch small issues early.
Contact Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics to schedule an appointment at any of our locations.
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878
📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
FAQ
Why do older kids stop brushing regularly?
Busy schedules, growing independence, orthodontic discomfort, and a lack of immediate consequences often cause brushing habits to slip as kids get older.
How can I motivate my child to floss every day?
Make flossing part of the nighttime routine, offer floss picks for convenience, and explain how flossing prevents cavities between teeth where brushing cannot reach.
Should parents still supervise brushing for older kids?
Parents should continue to monitor brushing and flossing until habits are consistent and effective, even if kids brush independently.
Can bad dental habits affect adult teeth?
Poor oral care can lead to cavities, gum inflammation, enamel damage, and long-term dental issues that affect adult teeth.
How often should older kids see the dentist?
Most children benefit from dental checkups every six months, though some may need more frequent visits based on their oral health needs.
