Fostering oral hygiene habits and self-regulation skills: an intervention with preschool children

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a program to promote self-regulation for self-care skills in preschool-aged children focused on oral habits and good oral health. Participants were 210 Mexican children aged 4 to 5 years who attended the Children's Assistance Community Centers (CAIC in Spanish). Findings showed that children who participated in the program, compared with those who did not, decreased significantly the teeth-bacteria plaque. The former also improved their self-regulation skills and dental hygiene habits. Data highlighted the key role of close adults in promoting young children's self-regulation for self-care focusing on dental hygiene habits.