Every parent is a specialist at brushing their kids’ teeth. But when should children begin flossing?
According to the American Dental Association, the short answer is when two teeth begin to touch. A toothbrush can’t clean all teeth surfaces, but flossing removes food particles and plaque trapped there. Flossing can significantly reduce the risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
How To Make Flossing Enjoyable for Kids
Often children need help understanding the idea of flossing. We want to share some ideas and tips on making flossing enjoyable for your kids.
· MAKE IT A GAME: IT’S SUPERHERO TIME FOR THE KIDS TO FLOSS!
Make the plaque between teeth into monsters or bad guys, and your child the superhero who uses floss to save their teeth.
· LET THEM SELECT THEIR TOOLS FOR FLOSSING
Kids’ dental floss is available in a variety of tasty flavors. So making flossing fun for children can involve letting them choose dental floss that they like. If your child has problems controlling regular dental floss, they could prefer floss picks. The floss most enjoyable for your children to use is frequently the greatest floss for them.
· PROVIDE AN EXAMPLE
According to conventional belief, children are likelier to emulate their parents’ behavior than their own. Additionally, it applies to oral hygiene! Therefore, be sure to floss your teeth every day. You could even schedule a time for the whole family to brush and floss their teeth simultaneously. Another option is to have your kid follow you in flossing your teeth. When your children floss, make sure to encourage and compliment them!
· A SYSTEM OF REWARDS FOR MAKING FLOSSING A HABIT
Repetition is helpful, as is any good habit. By using an incentive system, you can encourage your children to floss more frequently. Create a sticker chart so your child can track how often they floss, with a considerable incentive being a toy or book. Alternatively, put a gem, glass stone, or marble in a tiny jar whenever your child flosses. When it’s full, they can exchange it for a significant reward.
We Will Give You Short Guide For Your Kids And How They Should Floss
Most dental professionals advise parents to floss their children’s teeth until they are about 6 or 7 years old. However, you might wonder if you should floss before or after brushing your teeth. According to research, flossing first helps remove more plaque. Follow these simple guidelines to floss your children’s teeth properly:· Use waxed dental floss that is about 18 inches long. Pick a flavor that children enjoy, such as a grape or fruit smoothie. Hold the floss in place with your thumbs and forefingers while wrapping it around your middle fingers.
· Holding the floss in a C-shape against the tooth you’re cleaning, carefully place it between two of your child’s teeth. Move the floss up and down.
· Continue cleaning the remaining teeth, then remove the dental floss.
Advice for Kids Flossing & Brushing Habits From
Little Kids Dentistry
Want more advice on how to help your kids develop the habit of flossing? We have your back. The Little Kids Dentistry is here to teach and encourage your kids how to floss like superheroes!
To schedule a visit or checkup, get in touch with us at www.littlekidsdentistry.com
