Until they have two teeth next to each other, you only need to brush your child’s teeth on a daily basis. However, around the time their teeth start coming in more fully, you can expect to hear the subject of flossing come up during visits with the dentist. As your little one grows, it’s important to select a floss that will keep their teeth in great condition, especially later on when they start handling their own hygiene. Here's what parents should keep in mind.

Determining What Kind of Floss Your Child Needs

To decide which type of floss is best for your child, take a look at the spacing and shape of their teeth. If they have sizable gaps, for instance, they may be able to use dental tape, which is a broader style of floss designed for clearing food particles out of larger areas. If their teeth fit closely together, waxed floss may be a better option, as the wax will make it easier to slide the floss between teeth without forcing it.

Kids with varied spacing in their teeth may benefit from flosses made from fluffy, gentle material that stretches tight and expands when relaxed. If your child has braces, consult with their dentist about which materials and methods might best suit their flossing needs.

Deciding Between Types of Floss

The most common type of floss is waxed string. This comes in a wide variety of styles, from the traditional narrow string style to dental tape, expandable flosses, woven flosses, and others. Selecting the best one for your child could take quite a bit of experimentation, so it may save you some time and effort to ask your child’s dentist for a recommendation.

In addition to traditional waxed string floss, you can also find floss picks, which are small plastic brackets containing a short length of string floss at one end and a toothpick for removing stubborn bits of food at the other. If your little one has trouble maneuvering string floss, they may find it easier to use these devices, though one downside is that the plastic construction isn't environmentally friendly.

Alternatively, if your child has trouble using both string floss and floss picks or if they wear braces, they may find electric water flossers more comfortable. These devices project a thin, pressurized stream of water between the teeth, dislodging food particles and plaque.

For everything from routine dental exams to specialized advice on children’s dental care, turn to Kid Smiles in High Point, NC. These pediatric dentists offer a full range of general dentistry services using the latest equipment and techniques, and their staff strives to create an atmosphere that's welcoming, calm, and kid-friendly. Call (336) 885-5437 to schedule your child’s appointment, and find out more about their services online.