The question of when to introduce flossing into your child’s oral hygiene routine can be a bit of a puzzle for many parents. After all, you want to ensure their pearly whites stay healthy and strong. As a paediatric dentist, we share some insights.
The Importance of Flossing
Flossing regularly plays a vital role in maintaining your oral health, not just for removing food particles but also for preventing gum diseases. It’s a significant measure for promoting dental health. By not flossing, you’re neglecting a vital part of your oral hygiene.
Flossing benefits extend beyond a clean mouth. It decreases the risk of tooth decay and gum diseases by removing plaque and bacteria that your toothbrush can’t reach. This is because the bristles of a toothbrush can’t adequately clean between your teeth or under the gum line, areas where food particles often get stuck.
Furthermore, regular flossing diminishes mouth odour, contributing to overall oral freshness.
Scientific studies have shown links between oral health and other health conditions. By maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular flossing, you’re also taking steps towards safeguarding your general health.
The Ideal Age to Introduce Flossing
Most dental professionals agree that the ideal age to introduce flossing is when two teeth touch each other. This often happens around the age of two or three, though it varies for each child.
Flossing at this early stage can be largely beneficial for your child’s dental development. It helps prevent the build-up of plaque between the teeth, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay if left unchecked. Keep in mind, though, that flossing for a child isn’t quite the same as flossing for an adult. Their small hands may not be able to execute the flossing techniques effectively.
So until your child can tie their shoes, you’ll likely need to assist. This is usually around the age of six. By this time, your child should be able to handle flossing on their own, but supervision is still necessary to ensure they’re using the right flossing techniques so as to do it effectively and prevent them from hurting their gums.
Tips for Teaching Your Child to Floss
Teaching your child to floss can be a challenging task, but with the right strategies, you can turn it into an educational routine.
The first step is introducing proper flossing techniques. Start by showing them how to hold the floss correctly. Wrap the floss around their middle fingers and guide their hands as they go. Remember, the goal isn’t just clean teeth, but also to foster a sense of independence and responsibility in your child.
Next, you’ll need to explain the importance of flossing each tooth. Make sure they understand that merely running the floss between their teeth isn’t enough. They need to gently scrape the sides of each tooth to effectively remove plaque.
Flossing tools also play a crucial role in teaching your child to floss. Regular string floss can be tricky for little hands to handle. Consider using floss picks or floss holders initially. These tools are easy to grip and manoeuvre, making flossing less of a chore for your child.
Overcoming Common Flossing Challenges With Kids
Navigating through the common challenges that come with teaching your child to floss is not an impossible task.
1. One major obstacle you might encounter is your child’s flossing fears. Kids often worry about the discomfort or pain associated with flossing, which can make them hesitant. You can ease these fears by showing them how to floss properly, using gentle, easy-to-follow techniques. Try using a flosser designed for kids, which is often easier to handle and less intimidating.
2. Another challenge is maintaining consistency. Kids can forget or lose interest quickly, which might interrupt their flossing routine. To counter this, make it a fun, engaging experience. You can use things like a flossing chart where they can track their progress, or a fun graphic showing the benefits of flossing.
3. You can consider implementing dental rewards. Small incentives like a special treat or an extra story at bedtime can motivate your child to stick to their flossing routine. Always remember that the goal is to help them understand the importance of oral hygiene for their overall health.
Your Local Children’s Dentistry in Perth
Just like regular flossing, children can benefit from regular dental checkups. If treatment is necessary, our family dentists provide comprehensive children’s dentistry including fillings, crowns and extractions.