Kids need to floss every day to keep their teeth clean, and it’s important to know when to start. Starting early can help avoid cavities and keep gums healthy. Flossing removes food stuck between teeth while brushing only cleans the outside. Starting a flossing routine early builds the foundation for lifelong oral health. For advice on when and how to start, consult a clinic that offers preventative dentistry near you.
Do Baby Teeth Need to Be Flossed?
Some parents believe baby teeth require less care than adult teeth, which is incorrect. Baby teeth need to be flossed as soon as they touch. Because they are temporary, keeping these teeth healthy is important for your child’s lips and teeth as they grow. Not flossing can cause cavities, gum problems, and other issues with both baby and adult teeth.
Why is Flossing Important?
In addition to cleaning, flossing cleans between teeth along the gum line. Here are some important reasons why you should floss:
- It helps remove food particles that can cause plaque buildup.
- Flossing reduces the risk of gum disease and cavities.
- It helps prevent bad breath by eliminating trapped food and bacteria.
- Healthy baby teeth ensure proper spacing for adult teeth.
- It gets rid of bits of food that can cause plaque to build up.
Signs Your Child is Ready to Start Flossing
Knowing when to start flossing in your child’s routine is crucial. These things will indicate to you if your child is ready:
- Your child’s teeth have started to touch each other.
- Gaps between teeth close, reducing space for food to accrue.
- Your child often has food trapped between their teeth.
- Your dentist advises it during a check-up.
- Your child’s eating habits involve sticky or hard-to-remove foods like candy or dried fruits.
As soon as these things happen, they should start brushing every day.
Flossing Method for Children
Using the correct flossing method ensures effective cleaning. Flossing can be tricky for young children, so here are steps to follow:
- Cut about 18 inches of floss and wrap most of it around your fingers, leaving a small section to work with.
- Gently slide the floss between two teeth, curving it into a “C” shape around each tooth.
- Carefully move the floss up and down to remove any food particles or plaque.
- Don’t push the floss into your gums. This will help them not to suffer.
- The back tooth is where food often hides, so floss behind it every time you brush.
For children, floss picks may be easier to handle than traditional floss. Consider using them as an alternative while your child is learning.
How Often Should Children Floss?
Brushing at least once daily, preferably before bedtime. While brushing removes dirt from the surface of teeth, flossing keeps the spaces between teeth and the gum line free of food particles and plaque. Regular flossing helps children develop lasting oral hygiene habits.
Helping Your Child with Flossing
Little kids may find it hard to floss because they need to be careful with how they move their hands. Until children can floss on their own, parents should assist or supervise them.
Kids may usually begin flossing on their own between the ages of 8 and 10. Until then, you should help ensure the procedure is carried out properly.
Importance of Regular Dentist Visits
Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining your child’s oral health. A children’s dentist can show you how to floss and check how your child’s teeth are growing. They can also recommend tools and products, such as floss picks or flavouring floss, that make flossing easier and more enjoyable for kids.
Visit Oliver Family Dental for Expert Advice On Your Child’s Dental Care
Begin flossing as soon as your child’s teeth touch for long-term oral health. Frequent flossing promotes the proper development of baby and permanent teeth, eliminates trapped food, and prevents cavities. Oliver Family Dental is a reputable dentist in Edmonton that provides expert dental care. Our group provides thorough care to maintain the health of your child’s smile.
Schedule an appointment with Oliver Family Dental today to learn more about protecting your child’s oral health!
