Flossing dislodges food particles between teeth where toothbrush bristles can't reach, reducing the presence of the bacteria responsible for cavities and gum disease. Parents should instill this preventative dentistry habit in their children while they’re young—but how young is too young? Small children are still developing the fine motor skills needed to floss safely and effectively. Find out when you can have them start flossing below. 

When Should Your Child Start Flossing?

As soon as your child has two teeth that touch—usually around age 2 or 3—you should start flossing for them. Even baby teeth require this preventative dentistry care. If a child loses their tooth prematurely because of decay, an adult tooth may grow in early and crookedly, causing misalignment that will require pricey orthodontics. 

Children usually develop the ability to floss on their own by age 6 or 7. Until then, you will have to help them. Take a length of floss and wrap each end around your middle fingers so that just one inch of floss is free between the two of them. Slide this bit gently down between your little one's teeth, curving the floss in a "C" shape. Move on to a fresh inch of floss for each tooth.

How Can You Encourage Your Child to Floss? 

As your child’s dexterity and coordination improve, teach them to do the job themselves. Start them off with waxed floss, which glides more easily between teeth. If dental floss is too difficult for them to use, opt for hand-held flossing devices. 

You can encourage preventive dentistry habits like flossing in your child by getting them fun, kid-friendly tools to use. Look for floss and toothbrushes featuring their favorite cartoon character, for example. You can also turn to mobile apps to get kids excited about teeth cleaning. Showing them that preventative dentistry is fun will safeguard their smiles in the long run.

If your little one’s teeth are starting to grow, the team at Discovery Dental in Eagle River, AK, will help you create a preventative dentistry plan to keep bacteria at bay. These pediatric dentists educate young patients on how teeth cleaning preserves beautiful smiles. Visit their website for a full list of services, from cavity treatments to dental sealants for kids. To schedule an appointment for your little one, call (907) 622-5437.