Helping your child learn good dental habits is one of the best things you can do for them. Learning these habits early will help them maintain a beautiful smile for a lifetime. Brushing is important, but flossing is just as necessary. Many parents residing in Reno, Nevada, forget about flossing when teaching kids about dental care.
Flossing might look like it is harder to teach than brushing, but it does not have to be. In fact, you can make it fun and easy for your child. Flossing helps remove food and plaque from places a toothbrush cannot reach. Therefore, it is non-negotiable. Experts say about 40% of plaque can only be removed with flossing.
This article will talk about the simple ways to teach your child to floss. There are tips for every age group and how to make flossing fun. Visiting a dentist in south reno is also a great idea. They can assess your child’s needs and unique circumstances to provide the best professional advice. Scheduling a visit twice a year is typically recommended.
When should children start flossing?
Teaching kids good dental habits, such as flossing, early is important. It helps them keep their teeth healthy for life. Food and germs can get stuck between teeth and cause cavities and gum problems. Starting young also helps kids understand why taking care of their teeth is important.
Young kids cannot floss on their own as their hands are not steady enough until they are about 8 or 10 years old. Until then, parents need to help and show their children how to floss gently and safely. By the time your child becomes 8 to 10 years old, they can start flossing on their own. However, parents should still watch them while they do so.
Steps to teach your child to floss
Teaching your kids to floss the right way sets them up for good dental habits for life. Here is an easy step-by-step guide to help you teach your child to floss.
Step 1: Pick the right floss.
The first step is choosing a floss brand that is kid-friendly. Floss picks or waxed floss made for children are good recommendations. Some of them also come in fun colors or flavors to make flossing seem less “boring” for kids. Allowing your child to shop for their own floss and pick it themselves will give them a sense of ownership and make the experience more exciting.
Step 2: Show them how.
The next step is showing your child the right way to floss. You can do this by demonstrating and flossing on your teeth. Hold the floss and slowly push it between two teeth. Curve it into a “C” shape to clean along the gumline. Make sure to keep telling your kids to be gentle so that they do not hurt their gums. When your kids watch your floss, they can learn better and more quickly.
Step 3: Help them practice.
If your child is unable to do it themselves for the first time, you can help guide their hands. At first, move the floss between their teeth gently. Then, start rubbing it along the gumline and against the teeth to show them the cleaning method. This practical learning will build their confidence. With time, they will get better as they practice on their own.
Step 4: Make it a habit.
Flossing is not something you do once or twice a week; it should happen every day. Make sure your kid flosses every night before bed and help them turn it into a habit. You can even use praise or small rewards to motivate them and reinforce their good behavior.
Teaching your child to floss?
Teaching your child good dental habits can be fun and exciting. Visit your South Reno dentist for personalized dental care!
