How to Floss Your Child’s Teeth

Encouraging healthy habits and teaching your child the importance of brushing and flossing are the best things you can do to make sure your little one has a bright, healthy smile. Brushing is relatively simple and you can allow your little one to brush their own teeth once they have enough manual dexterity to tie their own shoes (usually by the age of 6). 

However, flossing requires more precision and dexterity, so parents often need to do this for their children until the age of 10. If your pediatric dentist has given you the green light to start flossing your child’s teeth (around the age of 2-3), here are a few things to keep in mind:‍

Why is Flossing So Important?

Daily brushing and flossing are the two most important things you and your child can do for your dental health. Pediatric dental care is especially important because learning positive habits early is the best way to ensure that they last a lifetime. Flossing cleans areas of the teeth that cannot be reached by a toothbrush. Since children often have diets high in sugar and they may not brush their teeth with proper technique every time, flossing your child’s teeth ensures that every surface (even below the gums) is clean and free of bacteria. 

The Proper Flossing Technique

Sometimes it can be a challenge to even floss your own teeth, so the team at Sea of Smiles is here to make your life a little easier. Here’s a step-by-step list of how to floss your child’s teeth:

• Cut off a piece of floss that is approximately 18 to 20 inches in length. 

• Lightly wrap each side of the piece of floss several times around each middle finger.
• Next, carefully maneuver the floss in between your child’s teeth with your index fingers and thumbs in an up and down motion. 
• Make sure to go below the gum line, and bend the floss to form a "C" on the side of each tooth.
  

Have Questions? Give Us a Call!

At Sea of Smiles, we feel honored to work with parents to help little patients stay strong and healthy. We take an enthusiastic approach to every pediatric appointment because we know how important it is to get your child excited about dental health and their daily oral hygiene routine. We will explain the importance of flossing in a way that they will understand and appreciate, and make it easier for you to care for their smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at (267) 392-5878. We have convenient locations in Yardley, Bensalem, and Warrington!