Being a parent is a lot of work, but it’s also incredibly gratifying. Our job as parents is to teach our children how to care for themselves. An effective hygiene routine must include oral hygiene. Most parents do an excellent job of teaching their kids how to brush their teeth correctly, but flossing is frequently more challenging.
Teach Your Child to Floss Effectively
Children can start using tooth floss around seven or eight, but it’s never too early to teach them! It would be advantageous if you began teaching your child to floss when they have two teeth close together. What makes cleansing crucial? Answering this question is necessary before we continue. Brushing is the first line of defense against decay, bad breath, and gum disease, with flossing coming in second. Brushes can’t reach areas of the lips that dental floss can. Food and plaque are frequently concealed along the gum line and between teeth. The development of cavities or gum disease is possible if food fragments are not eliminated by flossing. There are numerous types of floss, including:
- Standard floss: Giving your child an 18-inch piece of floss and instructing them to wind the majority of it around one finger—typically the pointer on the left or right hand—is how traditional floss is used. The remaining floss will then be wound around one finger on the opposing hand, being careful not to wrap it too tightly. The finger with the most floss will release the most of it between each tooth, and the other finger will collect it.
- Floss picks: Little ones frequently prefer dental floss tools. (and even many adults). Despite being more straightforward, regular floss still beats them in effectiveness. Picks are still an excellent option for children who struggle with regular floss, but we advise adults to use regular floss. Picks for dental floss come in harp or Y shapes. As standard, simply move the floss up and down the teeth. When the floss begins to appear worn, replace the pick. Between your teeth, rinse it.
How can you make it fun when deciding which floss to use with your kid? Do it jointly! While listening to peppy music, make silly faces at yourself in the mirror as you start flossing. Ideally, your child will look forward to spending more time with you as much as they look forward to cleaning their teeth! A flossing chart is a beautiful tool for encouraging your child to use dental floss daily. Add a sticker to the board each time your kid uses the bathroom. Reward them for five days every time they floss. Choose a cleanser for them.
Let Romans Soltani Dentistry Help Your Child Learn to Floss!
Your kid should see a pediatric dentist every six months for a dental cleaning, checkup, and instruction on how to brush and floss properly. Call (315) 487-1545 immediately to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sheila Soltani or Dr. Anna Romans at Romans Soltani Dentistry. Our top priority here at Romans Soltani Dentistry is your child’s oral health.
