How Do I Help My Kids Floss?

Posted July 17, 2020

We often find that kids brush their teeth regularly, but still develop serious oral health issues like gingivitis and tooth decay. The fact is, brushing alone is not enough. To truly help your little one maintain optimal oral health, you need to make sure he or she flosses every night before bed. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about the importance of proper flossing!

The Dangers of Gingivitis and Cavities

When we eat and drink, this leaves particles of what we consume behind on and between our teeth. Brushing our teeth successfully removes the particles from the exposed surfaces of the smile, but doesn’t reach what is trapped between the teeth. Bacteria then have a chance to break down these particles and, in the process, elevate oral acidity and coat the teeth in plaque buildup. Plaque then irritates and inflames the gum tissues, leading to gingivitis in older kids. The buildup also weakens and erodes outer enamel, allowing tooth decay to form in children of all ages, from babies to teens. Fortunately, routine care both at home and in our office helps reduce the risk of these issues, and that starts with remembering to floss!

Flossing Nightly

Children need to have the spaces between their teeth cleaned as soon as there are teeth sitting side-by-side. For toddlers, you can assist with a floss pick, and as they grow older monitor them to make sure they continue to floss properly. Older kids can then graduate to regular dental floss or floss tape if they prefer. Remember, to successfully clean between the teeth, the floss should run up and down each side of every tooth, and dip briefly below the gum line, as this removes trapped particles, reducing inflammation and discomfort, and improving overall oral health.

Dental Cleanings

Brushing and flossing helps remove food particles to control and reduce plaque buildup, but your little one also benefits from a professional cleaning every six months. The procedure involves using an ultrasonic scaler and manual tool to break up and remove all plaque and tartar coating the teeth, protecting little smiles from issues like cavities or gingivitis, as well as bad breath and stained teeth. If you have any questions about these visits or if you would like to schedule a cleaning appointment, then please contact our team today.

Do You Have Questions About Brushing and Flossing?

Our team wants to help you and your family gain a better understanding of the routine care needed to keep smiles of all ages strong and healthy. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX today at 214-321-4880. We proudly serve patients who live around Casa Linda and all surrounding Dallas communities.