When Should Kids Start Flossing Their Teeth?

Flossing is an important part of an effective oral hygiene routine. It removes plaque from the spaces between the teeth, lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Most adults know they should be flossing, but when should kids start? Learn about what age your children need to start flossing and how to make it a regular part of their dental care regime. 

Signs it's Time For Your Child To Start Flossing 

• The teeth are close together. Once your child’s teeth are closer together, enough that the toothbrush can’t get between them, it is time to start flossing. 
• The teeth are touching. You should begin flossing between any teeth that are touching. There is a higher risk of plaque buildup between the teeth once they are close enough together. 
• Your child is between the ages of 2 and 3. Usually by the age of 2 or 3 your child’s teeth will be close enough together that flossing is necessary. 
• Food gets caught between the teeth. If your child complains of food stuck between their teeth, this means the teeth are close enough together for flossing. 

Types of Floss for Children 

• String floss. Soft string floss is easy to use on children’s teeth. It comes in waxed or unwaxed versions. 
• Dental tape. Dental tape is flat, ribbon-like floss that may be more effective when there are wider spaces between the teeth. 
• Superfloss. Superfloss is spongy and wider with a reinforced end to make it easier to handle. 
• Flossers. Flossers are made of plastic with a u-shaped head. A piece of floss is suspended across the prongs and the handle can be used to guide it between the teeth. This is often the easiest type of floss for young children. 

Flossing Your Child’s Teeth

In the early years you will need to help your child floss their teeth or do it for them. It is difficult for young children to floss properly, even when using plastic flossers. As they grow and learn they may reach a point where they are capable of flossing effectively without help. 

Tips For Teaching Kids How To Floss 

1. Help your child tear off a piece of floss that is around 18 inches long. Use the bathroom counter or some other space in the bathroom to use as a guide, such as the width of the sink. Most bathroom sinks are between 16 and 20 inches wide. 
2. Show them how to wrap it around both middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches between them. 
3. Demonstrate how to use the index fingers to guide the floss in the space between each tooth, wrapping slightly around the sides. 
4. Explain why it is important to use a clean part of the floss between each tooth. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Flossing 

When Can My Child Floss Independently? 

Around the age of 8-10 children may be able to floss independently. It is important that you check on them occasionally to ensure they are using proper technique and that they are remembering to floss every day. 

How often should children floss their teeth?

We recommend flossing once a day for both children and adults. This way plaque is effectively removed while avoiding irritation of the gum tissue. 

Learn More About Flossing From Kids and Teens Dental Place

If you need additional information or assistance with flossing, contact Kids and Teens Dental Place. Our goal is to help your children achieve optimal oral health through effective dental hygiene skills.