For many parents, getting their children to floss properly is an ongoing struggle. Whether your kids put up a fight every night or simply don’t have the dexterity to use traditional floss yet, you might be wondering if there are any other options. Fortunately, pediatric dentists recommend several alternatives. 

3 Kid-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Floss

1. Floss Picks

Disposable floss picks—plastic tools with floss between their two prongs—are a lot easier to maneuver between the teeth than traditional string. This makes them a convenient option for children who struggle to floss properly because they haven’t yet mastered the technique. 

2. Water Flossers

A water flosser uses a thin stream of water to dislodge food particles and plaque that accumulate between the teeth. Some children find it fun to use, which makes this method ideal for kids who are reluctant to floss out of stubbornness. Water picks are also helpful for kids who can't fit traditional floss between their teeth because the spaces are too tight. 

3. Interdental Brushes

An interdental brush has a thin head with small bristles that can fit comfortably between teeth. Unlike floss picks, interdental brushes are reusable, so pediatric dentists recommend them to parents who don’t want to go through hundreds of floss picks every year. 

In addition to helping your children brush and floss every day, bring them to a pediatric dentist regularly for exams and cleanings. For quality dental care from a friendly team who knows how to put kids at ease, turn to Hawaii’s Pedodontic Associates. For more than 25 years, this practice has provided comprehensive care for infants, toddlers, and adolescents on Oahu and Maui. Visit their website to learn more about their knowledgeable pediatric dentists on staff. To request an appointment with a kids’ dentist, call (808) 735-1733 in Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 in Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 in Kahului.