Do Kids Need To Brush AND Floss?
Parents often remember to help their kids brush their teeth. But what about flossing? Do kids need to floss, or only adults? In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about how to help kids properly brush, and why children of all ages need to floss every evening!
The Importance of Brushing Teeth
We want children of all ages to brush twice a day. For babies, you can clean their first teeth with cloth or a small toothbrush that fits over a finger. As they reach the toddler years, you can assist them and eventually monitor them as they brush, choosing an age-appropriate toothbrush and using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. For older children, you can recommend a fun song, video, or even a sand timer to ensure they clean for at least two minutes in the morning and again before bed. But prior to that evening brushing session, all kids need to floss!
Everyone Needs to Floss
As soon as there are teeth sitting next to one another, flossing is needed to clean better them. In the baby and young toddler years, you can do this with a floss pick. These are also good for children with limited dexterity, once your children start brushing and flossing on their own. As they grow older, they can graduate to tape or string. Children of all ages need to run the tape or string up and down each side of every tooth, and dip beneath the gum line too, which helps remove trapped particles that a toothbrush alone cannot do. If your little ones have not flossed, there can be some minor discomfort and bleeding at first, but this passes. Flossing is essential for lowering the risk of tooth decay in all ages, and preventing gingivitis in teens.
Cutting Back on Sugar Helps Too!
Another great way to help lower the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis in children is to lower how much sugar is in their diet, as sugar often feeds harmful bacteria to create the plaque and tartar buildup that is linked to cavities and gum inflammation. Offer them snacks like fresh fruits and agates, and options like low-fat yogurts and whole grain breads. Be sure they drink plenty of water, and watch out for sugar-rich options like soda, fruit juice, and sports drinks and energy drinks. If you have any questions about helping your little ones floss and enjoy better oral hygiene, then reach out to our team today to learn more!
PDC Kids Helps Kids Care for Their Smiles
Our team wants to make sure everyone is caring for their teeth at home and attending routine visits to our office. To find out more about helping little smiles of all ages, then call Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX, today at (214) 321-4880.
filed under: Children's Dental Services