As a parent, you know the importance of flossing to maintain healthy teeth, but did you realize that your kids’ baby teeth should be flossed, too? CAO member, Dr. Kurt Stormberg spoke with Northern County Kids Magazine to give tips on how parents can help their children floss, dispell myths about cavities and inform on the ideal age for kids to visit the orthodontist.
When is the right time to start taking your child to the orthodontist?
Parents should have their children seen by a dentist or pediatric dentist at age 1. Children should see a dentist every 6 months for routine exams and cleanings, and should see an orthodontist for the first time at 7. Children do not all begin orthodontic treatment at 7, but 15 percent of kids will need interceptive orthodontic treatment to avoid more serious and longer orthodontic treatment once their permanent teeth come in.
Which type of floss is best for kids?
Waxed floss is the best for almost all age groups. For children with lots of spaces between their baby teeth, super floss is best since it is thicker and can clean the teeth on either side of the spaces.
For younger children, do you suggest parents floss
or them?
Parents should brush and floss children’s teeth until the age of 10. Children just don’t have the dexterity or patience to do a proper job of brushing and flossing. Once the parent has finished brushing and flossing the child’s teeth, then have the child practice on their own to begin to master the techniques necessary to do a good job.
Why do some kids get multiple cavities at a time?
The number of cavities a child gets depends on many factors—including but not limited to oral hygiene practices (brushing/flossing), diet (large amounts of sugary drinks/candy), and heredity.