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Much like brushing, flossing from a young age is an important factor in keeping your child’s teeth healthy and keeping your kids free from unnecessary dental pain associated with plaque and cavities.1
Children’s teeth can grow in a tightly crowded manner causing an increased risk of tooth decay between adjacent teeth. These interproximal spaces are too narrow for the toothbrush and create a trap where bacteria can hide. Bacterial plaque and food can settle between the teeth, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. The tongue should also be brushed to remove bacterial plaque.2
To prevent the development of gum disease it is important that you start flossing when your child is 4 years old. It is important to floss at least once a day. Most children will be able to start flossing between the ages of 3 and 6, but make sure to keep a close eye on your kid’s teeth as more grow in so you know when you need to start flossing regularly! If your child is on the younger side of this age range, you will need to floss for them until they’re old enough to learn how to floss themselves with your help.1
In addition to removing plaque, flossing also helps to:
- Remove debris that sticks to teeth between the teeth and under the gums
- Polish tooth surfaces
- Control bad breath
Your child should floss at least once a day for 2 to 3 minutes each time to be most effective.3
Your child’s gums may bleed when you floss for them. No need to panic; a little bit of bleeding at the beginning of a flossing habit is totally normal! This can also happen in adults who start flossing their teeth regularly for the first time. If your child’s gums bleed when you floss for them, this should stop happening after you’ve been flossing regularly for several days, as their gums become stronger and healthier.1
Always ask your health care professional for more tips and advice.
Mohammad Kamal Harb
Pediatrician
1https://www.dentistryforkids.info/
2https://www.toothbeary.co.uk/childrens-dental-flossing
3https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/
