We all know how important it is to teach our children how to brush their teeth properly at a young age. But what does a Kearney, MO pediatric dentist specialist recommend when it comes to flossing?
As one of the premier pediatric dental specialists in Kearney, MO, Shoal Creek knows that flossing daily is a critical part of proper dental hygiene, so it is critical to emphasize this with your child. This article will cover the basics of flossing and how you can incorporate it into your child’s daily routine.
The Role of Flossing
The ultimate goal of brushing your teeth is to remove as much plaque as possible. As leading Kearney, MO pediatric dentist specialist, Shoal Creek knows that brushing cannot remove all plaque that builds up on your child’s teeth. Flossing will help remove any remaining plaque that a toothbrush is unable to reach.
The most troublesome areas for plaque buildup for children are between the teeth and under the gums. Not only can flossing remove plaque between teeth and in the gums, but it can also assist with the following:
- Removes debris or small pieces of food that are stuck between the teeth and under the gums
- Helps polish the tooth’s surface
- By removing bacteria, plaque, and small food particles, flossing can prevent bad breath
Pediatric dental specialists in Kearney, MO, recommend flossing at least once a day. Each flossing session should be 2-3 minutes to be most effective.
Different Types of Dental Floss
Combined with regular brushing, consistent flossing is the most effective way to avoid plaque buildup. There are multiple types of floss available, which include:
- Flavored or Unflavored
- Smooth or Textured
- Waxed or Unwaxed
Be sure to talk to your children’s dentist in Kearney, MO, to best determine what type of floss would be best for your child.
Flossing Methods
Learning to floss might be a challenge at first for your child. According to many pediatric dentists in Kearney, MO, children may need help with proper flossing until they are 8 to 10 years old. There are different flossing techniques you can use to help your child feel more comfortable, like:
- Loop Method – wrap each end of floss around all fingers on each hand (except the thumb)
- Spool Method – wrap each floss end around one finger on each hand
- Pre–Threaded Flosser – great for kids first learning to floss and are disposable after they are done
If you are looking for a kid-friendly dental experience for your child, contact the best kid dentistry in Kearney, MO. Shoal Creek Pediatric Dentistry will provide a safe and secure environment for your child while treating them with the utmost patience and kindness that they deserve.
For more information about our services, call us today at (816) 781-5437. We look forward to hearing from you!
