The importance of maintaining good general health can not be overemphasized. And the benefits are quite evident in the fact that sick people often find it challenging to be happy or participate actively in various activities.
However, maintaining good health means ensuring each part of your body is well cared for. Unfortunately, one aspect of general body health that is neglected is oral health. And it often attracts consequences in most cases.
Although the oral system doesn’t naturally look like the most critical part of the body, it is equally vital and deserves as much attention as possible. According to dentist Craig Allen, DMD, failure to properly care for your oral health can result in severe conditions like heart diseases and other cardiovascular infections.
This only further highlights the significance of the oral system and why you must see that it is properly maintained. Indeed, the teeth are one vital part of the oral system, and basic ways to keep it clean and healthy is by brushing and flossing daily.
While this piece of information may not be new to you, it is up to you to make sure your kids are also aware of how essential these basic skills are. Yes, you are expected to help clean their teeth as younger kids. But then, they tend to prefer brushing by themselves as they grow older, as is typical with most kids.
At this point, you will be expected to teach them the right way to brush, floss, and carry out other activities that will help them maintain excellent oral health. This article will focus on important tips for teaching your kids to floss.
What Is Flossing, And Why Is It Important?
Flossing is a vital habit for maintaining good oral hygiene. This activity helps remove dirt and food particles stuck between the teeth. Indeed, brushing the teeth is the primary way to get them clean.
However, what happens to the tiny food particles stuck between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach? Well, there isn’t much you can do about it but to pick up your dental floss.
Dental floss is a tiny cord made of thin filaments used for interdental cleaning and picking out small food residues stuck between the teeth. When these food particles are not removed on time, they can build up to form a plaque or even cause gingivitis in some cases.
Teaching Your Kids To Floss
We have already established how important flossing is and why you must include it in your daily oral maintenance routine. You would also want to ensure that your kids understand the essence of flossing and how it is done. Here are a few pointers and expert tips on how to floss correctly.
- Cut out a floss of about 18 inches and wrap the edges around each of your middle fingers.
- Hold the floss firmly between your thumb and index fingers.
- Place the floss between two teeth and gently guide it towards your gum.
- Wrap the floss into a C-shape around one tooth and gently move the floss from side to side.
- Remove the floss slowly, and repeat the same process for each space between your teeth.
- Rinse your teeth with clean water, and rinse your floss.
Other Essential Flossing Tips
Many people often end up puzzled about whether it is best to brush before flossing or otherwise. Well, as much as no harm will be done whichever way, it is best to floss before brushing your teeth.
This way, you can correctly remove the particles stuck between your teeth before washing all the dirt away using your toothbrush. If you floss after brushing, the dislodged particles may not have anywhere to go until the next time you brush. This may be unhealthy for your oral system.
Bottom Line
Helping your kids understand the importance of maintaining excellent oral health is vital. It will help improve the state of their oral system and general health. Remember to show them how to floss, as highlighted in this article. Don’t hesitate to visit a dentist occasionally for an oral check-up.
