Despite popular belief, taking proper care of teeth starts before permanent teeth come in. Some people believe that children do not need to floss because their baby teeth will fall out, but flossing is beneficial for both teeth and gums. Teaching not only good brushing habits but good flossing habits can save children from growing up with cavities or other dental problems.
The key to children learning to floss is that they need to learn by example. By making flossing their teeth a regular part each day, they can learn how to floss properly. Children’s teeth should be flossed once a day and brushed twice a day. When children first start flossing and brushing on their own, parents should consider doing this as a family. Doing so shows that flossing does not stop when parents are not watching. Flossing and brushing are things that everyone should do.
Additionally, teaching kids to floss should be part of teaching them their daily routine. Reminding children to floss daily just as they are reminded to make their bed daily will teach good habits that will help them have healthy teeth for life.
Many wonder when they should first floss their children's teeth. As soon as a child has two touching teeth, floss them daily. Continue flossing their teeth for them until they begin to brush their own teeth, which usually happens around 6 or 7 years old depending on the child's motor skills. Handling floss might be too difficult for little hands, so parents can purchase floss picks. These allow the child to easily hold them, and then, learn how to floss on their own.
Remember: teaching children to floss once a day and brush twice a day from an early age will ensure they have a healthy mouth. Consulting with a dentist while carrying out good habits at home is the best way for every child to have a happy mouth!