Flossing for Children
I’d love to tell you that I never see 4 or 5-year-old children with tooth decay, but the truth is, I do. And although you can’t control some things that play a part in your child’s decay process, like DNA, type of bacteria and saliva consistency, one thing you can control is whether or not your child brushes and flosses regularly.
Parents of our NYC Pediatric dental practice patients often ask me if they need to floss their infant, preschooler or school-aged children’s teeth. My answer is always the same: “Yes!” Unlike brushing, flossing allows you to clean between the teeth, where cavities often sneak in. Flossing also removes tiny particles of food lodged between the teeth that can be missed by the toothbrush. In addition to brushing, flossing is the most important part of keeping your child’s teeth clean, and one that’s often overlooked.
Consistency is Key in Flossing
It’s an unfortunate reality that most people don’t stick to a flossing regimen until they’re looking at a mouthful of fillings or when facing the challenges of gum disease. By then, treatment isn’t as easy as brushing twice daily and flossing before bed. So, helping your child develop this habit early on, consistently, and showing him or her exactly how to floss, is extremely important. Just as you wouldn’t let your child say “No” to wearing a seatbelt, flossing should be a non-negotiable part of a child’s life.
Ask Me for a Flossing Demo
If you’re having trouble with daily flossing, either due to the difficulty inserting the floss in your child’s small mouth, and/or because your child is less than thrilled about the process, I can help. A quick demo in our office and you’ll be a pro in no time.
Please accept my best wishes for a safe and sweet winter holiday and a healthy and happy 2016.