Children Also Need To Floss

Posted January 25, 2021

Last week we did a reminder post on proper brushing for kids of all ages. Now, we would like to take a look at an even more important oral hygiene habit: flossing! Children need to begin flossing at an early age, and keep this habit up, in order to avoid issues like cavities or even gum inflammation. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist will discuss proper flossing methods.

Choosing Pick or Tape

If you’re helping your child, or he or she is finally starting to tackle the process alone, a floss pick is a great way to start. There are even versions available meant for children to wield. As your kids grow older and their dexterity improves, then floss tape is recommended. Some older kids and adults also enjoy water flossers. The option you choose isn’t as important as making sure you clean your teeth as you should! Basically, take a length of tape or use the pick to run the tape up and down on each side of every tooth. You want to also dip below the gum line in a “c” motion when you do. These actions help prevent gum inflammation and cavities by removing the food particles caught between the smile and along the gum line.

When to Start

Basically, as soon as there are teeth sitting next to each other, you need to begin cleaning between them. Otherwise, food could be stuck beyond the reach of a toothbrush, even if you’re brushing for them.

The Importance for Their Smiles

When bacteria break down food particles, this elevates levels of oral acidity and coats them in plaque buildup. Along with teeth stains and bad breath, plaque is linked to weakened tooth enamel and cavities, as well as gum inflammation that causes gingivitis in kids and could lead to gum disease in adulthood. Starting early means your child becomes accustomed to flossing. Instead of being a source of discomfort or bleeding gingival tissues, this is a comfortable, daily occurrence that protects their smile as a whole.

Brushing

You should floss every evening before bed at a minimum. But still make sure your kids brush in the morning and in the evening as well. Brushing and flossing in tandem help control plaque buildup and protect smiles in the time between checkup and cleaning visits! If you have any questions, then give us a call.

Do You Have Questions About Preventive Kids Care?

The steps your family take at home is crucial for avoiding issues like tooth decay and gingivitis. To learn more about keeping small smiles healthy, then  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.