Teach Kids to Floss – And Have Fun

I Know Flossing is Important, but Why?

Daily brushing and flossing are important for healthy teeth. However, flossing seems the most dreaded part of oral care. The American Dental Association discovered only 50% of adults floss every day and 18% of adults do not floss at all.

It is important to floss daily. Flossing removes food particles, plaque, and cavity-causing bacteria left by brushing alone, especially between the teeth. Begin flossing when children have two teeth touching. Parents should do the flossing until the child is around three years old. After that, teach them to floss on their own.

Fun Ways for Kids Learn About Flossing

Teach a child to floss with an egg carton smile. Cut out the cups of an egg carton and glue them to cardboard or construction paper in a smile. Put play dough or pieces of colored paper between the teeth. See if your child can floss the egg carton teeth clean.

To demonstrate why flossing is important, start by covering a gloved hand in peanut butter. Press your fingers together and allow your child to brush off the peanut butter until the outside is clean. Open your fingers and show the peanut butter between your fingers. Let your child floss between your fingers to remove the peanut butter.

If you have concerns about your child flossing, dentists at Carolina Smiles Dentistry will teach your child the correct way to floss and answer any questions during their routine cleaning. Our staff is here to help your child develop strong dental hygiene habits. You can call our office at 919-620-6700 to schedule an appointment for you or your child.

*Stock photographs and artwork are for illustrative purposes only. **This blog/post contains general information about medical conditions and treatments. You must not rely on this blog/post as an alternative to medical advice from your dentist or other healthcare providers. Please see our full disclaimer at www.CarolinaSmilesNC.com.

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4210 N. Roxboro St., Suite 100
Durham, NC 27704

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