Building Good Habits with Floss for Kids
Early childhood cavities are dramatically increasing due to a number of reasons. 42% of children ages 2 through 11 have had dental cavities in their baby teeth. Primary teeth, or baby teeth, are important for speech development, nutrition, and preparing for permanent teeth. With cavities on the rise, floss for kids is an important tool to improve oral health and overall health.
Table of Contents
Factors that Increase Cavities in Kids
Early childhood cavities are the most common preventable disease among children around the world. Yes, childhood cavities are now considered a disease due to the prevalence and consequences it has on childhood development. Our Children’s Oral Health article can help you learn more about supporting your child’s smile.
Diet
The amount of fermentable carbohydrates children consume is a very high-risk factor in cavities. Packaged snacks, crackers, cookies, and chips are huge factors that cause cavities along with gummies, sweets, and desserts.
- Bottle-Feeding Cavities: Giving children a bottle with milk or juice will increase their cavities risk. Avoid giving your child a bottle with anything but water during bedtime/overnight.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Due to the increase of fermentable carbohydrates and sugar, good homecare habits are very important. Brush 2 times a day for 2 minutes with assistance from an adult up until age 9. Bedtime routine is key in helping children with brushing and flossing to fight cavities.
Medications
Many medications contain sugar to make them taste better. Liquid and chewable medications are commonly given without brushing after.
- Antihistamines, decongestants, and asthma medications have dry mouth as a side effect. Saliva plays an important role in neutralizing bacteria and cleaning out food debris.
Vitamins & Supplements
Most children’s vitamins and supplements have sugar in them. Natural, organic, and vegan sugars all cause cavities. Gummy vitamins for children and adults are a huge culprit in cavities.
Delaying Dental Visits
It is recommended to visit the dentist starting around age 1. With the dramatic rise in cavities, dental preventative visits are very important. Establishing a dental home early for your child can help keep the baby teeth strong to prepare for their adult teeth later in life.
- Dental sealants are a great way to reduce your child’s cavity risk. For more information, check out our Sealants on Molars Guide article.
Making Floss for Kids Fun
Parents and guardians should start the flossing routine when the baby molars are touching. Every child is different and teeth will start to close together between ages 2-6. Ask your dental professional if you’re unsure.
- Parents are the best teachers! When you are flossing your teeth, give your child a piece of floss. This will show them that flossing is a normal routine that helps reinforce that habit.
- Floss for kids comes in different colors and flavors. Letting your child choose what she/he wants helps involve them in the choice to floss at bedtime.
- Use an Oral Hygiene Reward Chart to help build that habit through fun interactive reinforcement.
Different Options Floss for Kids
It will take time and practice for your child to learn the dexterity to floss efficiently. Encourage your child to take turns with you when using floss for kids.
- Flossers or floss picks are a perfect start for your child. Choose colors and flavors that your kid will be interested in.
- Placing a small amount of your child’s favorite toothpaste on the string can help with encouragement.
- Switch to string floss when your child’s dexterity has improved. When children can tie their shoes, they can learn to use string floss.
Using Water Flossers for Dental Appliances
Water flossers use the power of a precise water stream to mechanically remove plaque, bacteria, and food debris. These work great for braces, expanders, and fixed retainers.
- Most manufacturers make cordless water flossers that can be used in the shower. This can keep the water in the shower and not all over your bathroom. Fog-less mirrors that suction to the wall can improve technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should a child start flossing?
You should start flossing your child’s teeth around age 2. The baby molars will start to touch anywhere from ages 2-6. We recommend parents’ active assistance up until age 9.
Are floss picks good for kids?
We recommend starting your children’s flossing routine with floss picks. Kids do not have enough dexterity to efficiently use string floss. Once your child has enough dexterity to tie their shoes, they can start using string floss. String floss is more effective in removing plaque, bacteria, and food.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile store for educational brochures and other fun printables to help with oral hygiene. All products can be customized to fit your dental needs.
