Encouraging kids to brush their teeth and even going to the dentist is not easy as parents. One common practice is giving a toy or gift after an appointment to encourage good behaviour. However, it's important to understand how this approach affects a child’s motivation and perception of dental care.
For this blog post, we will be talking about different motivations, such as intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
Intrinsic Motivation: Intrinsic motivation comes from within. It is driven by personal satisfaction and the inherent enjoyment of an activity. When children are intrinsically motivated, they engage in behavior because they find it interesting, fun, or rewarding in itself. For example, a child who brushes their teeth regularly because they enjoy having a clean mouth is intrinsically motivated.
Extrinsic Motivation: Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is driven by external rewards or avoiding negative consequences. This type of motivation relies on external factors, such as toys, treats, or praise, to encourage behavior. For instance, a child who brushes their teeth to receive a sticker is extrinsically motivated.
While extrinsic rewards like toys or gifts can initially encourage children to cooperate during dental visits, they can have unintended consequences on their motivation over time. Here’s why relying on extrinsic rewards might not be the best approach:
1. Shifts Focus from Intrinsic Satisfaction: When children receive a toy or gift for visiting the paediatric dentist, their focus shifts from the intrinsic benefits of dental care (such as having healthy teeth and avoiding cavities) to the external reward. They may begin to associate dental visits with getting a prize rather than understanding the importance of oral health.
2. Dependency on Rewards: Children may start to expect a reward every time they visit the family dentist. This can lead to a dependency on extrinsic rewards for motivation. Without a reward, they may be less willing to cooperate or feel less positive about the visit.
3. Undermines Long-Term Motivation: Extrinsic rewards can undermine long-term intrinsic motivation. When the rewards are removed, children might lose interest in the activity altogether. In the context of dental care, this could mean they are less likely to maintain good oral hygiene practices if there is no immediate reward.
4. Reduces Enjoyment of the Activity: If children are always rewarded for dental checkups, they might not learn to appreciate the visits for their own sake. This can reduce their overall enjoyment and the likelihood of developing a positive attitude toward dental care.
5. Implies the Activity is Unpleasant or Painful: Giving a reward after a dental trip can inadvertently teach children that the experience is something to endure rather than something positive. They might begin to view dental appointments as unpleasant or painful activities that require compensation, reinforcing a negative perception of dental care.
To foster intrinsic motivation and help children develop a positive attitude toward dental care, consider the following strategies:
1. Educate and Involve: Teach children about the importance of oral health and involve them in their dental care routine. Use fun and engaging ways to explain how brushing and flossing keep their teeth strong and healthy.
2. Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement through praise and encouragement. Acknowledge their bravery and good behavior during the successful visit, focusing on their achievements rather than offering a tangible reward.
3. Create a Positive Experience: Make dental visits enjoyable by creating a friendly and supportive environment. Allow children to ask questions and participate in the process. Interactive learning and playful interactions during dentist visits can make the experience intrinsically rewarding.
4. Set a Good Example: Model good oral hygiene practices and a positive attitude toward dental care. Children are more likely to develop intrinsic motivation when they see their parents valuing and enjoying dental care.
While giving toys or gifts after dental appointments can provide short-term motivation, it’s important to consider the long-term impact on a child’s intrinsic motivation to form good dental habits. By focusing on the intrinsic benefits of dental care and using positive reinforcement, we can help children develop a lifelong positive attitude toward their oral health.
At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we are committed to providing a supportive and educational environment that encourages intrinsic motivation and fosters a love for healthy smiles. Maroubra Dental Clinic is a child-friendly dental practice that offers a wide range of dental treatments and dental services, with a focus on creating a an enjoyable experience during every dentist trip.