Parenting can be a very rewarding experience. It’s essential that during your child’s life that they should learn how to care for their teeth, as oral hygiene is a vital part of keeping their oral health in tip-top shape. Flossing, however, is often an undertaught subject, as it can be difficult for children to use floss after brushing their teeth. Teaching them how to brush their teeth can already be challenging, never mind flossing! But don’t worry – we’re here to help. 

How To Teach Your Child To Floss Their Teeth 

The best, most optimal time for your child to start learning how to floss their teeth is around seven or eight. If you start training them early on when their teeth start to come in, it can greatly benefit their transition into brushing and flossing their teeth and teaching them valuable skills for independence. 

While brushing our teeth is our first defense against tooth decay, so is flossing. Dental floss allows us to get into the nooks and crannies between the teeth and remove any bacteria and plaque that our toothbrushes cannot. In short, there are two types of flossing materials that you can use to teach your child how to floss their teeth. These include: 

• Traditional Dental Floss: Traditional dental floss is what most people are familiar with – the long string of mint-flavored string. For children, help them wrap a section of floss around one finger and watch over them as they floss. Use the mirror and even use yourself as examples to help them learn, and if they struggle, then flossing picks may be a better choice. 
• Flossing Picks: Flossing picks are tools that contain sections of floss. It’s a simple tool that’s considered a great alternative for children to learn how to floss without having to use complicated movements. These y-shaped tools are a straightforward starting point to help them learn how to floss their teeth. 

What better way to teach them how to floss than by doing it together? Make it fun by playing music, making silly faces, and dancing together. Reward your child with stickers and fun toys when they brush and floss their teeth. By teaching them and rewarding them for their good habits, then they’ll have excellent oral health for life. 

Visit Oak Grove Dental Center For Family-Friendly Dental Care Today!

At Oak Grove Dental Center, Dr. Kevin H. Speer can provide effective family dental care in Milwaukie, OR, if you want to learn more about Oak Grove Dental Center and our treatment options, call (503) 654-9521 to visit our office today!