Flossing removes plaque and food debris from surfaces between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. If this buildup is not cleared daily, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, even in baby teeth. Parents and caregivers must understand how to effectively execute this task for a child to establish a foundation of lifelong dental wellness. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for integrating flossing into a child’s daily hygiene routine.
Determining When to Start Flossing
The introduction of flossing is determined by tooth proximity, not age. Parents should begin flossing as soon as any two teeth are touching, which usually occurs around age two or three. A toothbrush cannot adequately clean these contact surfaces. If a parent is unsure, they can test the contact point by gently sliding floss between the teeth; resistance indicates flossing is needed. Flossing must be performed once per day to effectively disrupt plaque.
The Proper Technique for Parents
Tear off approximately 18 inches of dental floss. Wrap the majority around the middle finger of one hand (the “clean” spool) and a small amount around the middle finger of the opposite hand (the “used” portion). Hold the floss tautly between the thumb and forefinger of each hand, leaving one or two inches of working floss exposed.
Gently guide the floss between two adjacent teeth using a soft, back-and-forth “sawing” motion. This avoids snapping the floss down onto the gum tissue, which can cause discomfort. Once past the contact point, curve the floss into a “C” shape around the side of one tooth, hugging the surface. Slide the floss into the space beneath the gumline, then move it up and down the side of the tooth several times to clean the entire surface.
Repeat this motion on the side of the adjacent tooth before removing the floss. Before moving to the next set of teeth, unroll a fresh section of floss and wind the used portion onto the other finger. This prevents the transfer of bacteria and plaque, maintaining hygienic effectiveness throughout the mouth.
Choosing the Right Tools and Motivation Strategies
While string floss offers the most comprehensive cleaning, especially around the gumline, other tools are available. Flossers are small, handled devices with floss pre-strung across two prongs, making them easier for parents to maneuver in a child’s mouth. Although they are not as effective as string floss and require rinsing after each use, floss picks can simplify the task for both parent and child.
To encourage compliance, parents should incorporate motivational strategies into the flossing routine. Allowing the child to select their own flavored or brightly colored floss gives them a sense of ownership. Positive reinforcement, such as a reward chart where the child earns a sticker for flossing, is effective in building consistency. Transforming the activity into a game, like searching for “sugar bugs,” also makes the daily task more engaging.
Fostering Flossing Independence
Parents must assist their child with flossing until the child develops the fine motor skills needed to perform the task effectively. This dexterity is typically acquired around age eight to ten. The transition to independent flossing should be gradual, starting with the child attempting easy-to-reach teeth while the parent supervises and finishes the rest. Floss picks are beneficial during this phase because they are easier for small hands to grip and control. Even when the child begins flossing independently, parents should continue to check their work and offer assistance until they are confident the child is consistently reaching all areas using the proper technique.