If you are having a hard time encouraging your child to floss, we are happy to help you! There are a few things you can do to make flossing a positive and fun activity for your child, including:
Show them the way
Make flossing a family activity and show your child how to floss. First, wrap the floss around your fingers and floss your own teeth. Then, use another piece of floss and gently floss your child’s teeth. Once you explain the process, have your child try on their own. Please remember to mention that they need to be very careful around their gums.
Praise good behavior
If your child flosses each day, make sure you praise them. You can come up with a system that also rewards them for their oral hygiene. If they floss every day for a week, they can have a treat. You can also create a star chart that will make them feel accomplished. Either way, make sure they are praised each time they floss.
Buy kid-friendly flossing products
Children love to use oral hygiene products that have their favorite cartoon characters or superheroes on them, so try to purchase a flossing product they are excited about. This will help them want to floss.
Tell them about the Tooth Fairy
The Tooth Fairy is a great myth that motivates children to take care of their teeth. You can tell your child that if the tooth that they lose is in great condition because of flossing, the Tooth Fairy will reward them even more.
If you would like to know more about how to encourage your child to floss, please remember that you can always call Rai Family Dentistry at 540-657-0867 and talk to a member of our caring dental team. We also encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rai if you are interested in a demonstration on how to properly floss. We look forward to helping you!