Your Questions about Flossing Your Baby’s Teeth Answered

As a parent, you want nothing more than for your child to have a long, happy, healthy life. Giving them a good foundation from which to build that sort of life starts when they are babies. That applies to most aspects of life, including their dental care. You know it’s important to brush their teeth, but what about flossing?

When Should I Start Flossing Their Teeth?

The first question you probably have is when you should start flossing their teeth. The answer is when they have teeth that are close together. That means different things for different children. Generally speaking, the lower two front teeth are the first ones to come in. They usually start between the ages of six months and one year. That means that you could end up flossing your child’s teeth as young as six months. It all depends on when your child’s teeth erupt and where they are in proximity to one another.

Does Flossing Really Matter?

Think about the purpose of flossing. The point is to clean out any food debris that may be stuck between teeth or between the tooth and gum. It also helps prevent and get rid of plaque that can otherwise cause tooth damage. Baby teeth can get cavities, just like yours. If they get bad enough, they can spell trouble for the permanent teeth that won’t be coming in for years. So the short answer is yes, flossing really does matter.

How Do I Get Them to Let Me Floss Their Teeth?

Children lack the fine motor skills necessary to floss their own teeth for a while, which means you’ll have to do it. Some children may not mind so much, but for others, oral hygiene in general can be something of a battle. It will take time for your child to get used to the sensation of having their teeth flossed. You can help them by having a positive attitude towards the experience. Let them sit on the counter so they can see what you’re doing. Let them see you floss your own teeth. The more you can normalize the experience and make it a positive one, the easier it will go for both of you.

Every parent finds themselves with questions, no matter how many children they’ve had up to this point. When it comes to flossing your baby’s teeth, knowing when to start flossing, understanding why it matters, and knowing how to get them to let you do it are important things for parents to have a handle on. Get off to a good start with your child’s oral care by getting them started while they’re still young.

If you have other questions about pediatric dentistry, check out our Pediatric Dental FAQ page for some answers.