Flossing is an important component to daily oral care. We know that it’s important that everyone should brush twice daily, and floss at least once. But at what age can we teach our children to floss? A child can begin to learn to brush his or her teeth as soon as he or she has the basic motor skills to be able to maneuver the brush. Unfortunately, there is no one absolute right answer to this question, because each child is going to be different. But there are a number of factors to consider, and at some time in adolescence, a child should make flossing a part of his or her oral care routine.
A child who’s encouraged to brush his or her teeth and floss at least once is likely to become an adult who understands the importance of a quality everyday oral care routine. You can help your child floss with the help of interdental cleaners, but when you believe they have demonstrated the dexterity to handle flossing, it’s time to step back and encourage them. It’s a good idea at this stage to floss your own teeth, while your child is flossing his or hers. Leading by example can only positively reinforce flossing as habit.
If your child becomes overly frustrated by flossing, even if he or she has the dexterity to do it, then allow them to use an interdental cleaner or other similar device. If a child becomes too frustrated they may become adults who dislike and remain aloof to the thought of flossing. Creating quality oral habits now, in childhood, can only bolster those same good habits later in adulthood.
If you have any questions about when is the best time to teach your child to floss, or if it’s time to schedule you or your child’s next appointment with your dentist at Premier Smile, then call today.