Flossing

The use of dental floss will effectively remove plaque in the areas between the teeth and below the gumline. Flossing helps to prevent periodontal disease ( gum disease ) and tooth decay.

Young children often do not have the dexterity to floss properly. Therefore, it is necessary for a parent to assist them. As a child reaches adolescence, the use of dental floss should be encouraged. This will start good dental health habits.

Flossing takes little time and should be done one time each day. Follow these simple steps:

Use a piece of dental floss approximately 12 inches long, the length from hand to elbow.

Wrap each end of the dental floss around the middle finger. Hold a small area of the dental floss between the thumb and forefinger.

Gently guide the dental floss between the teeth. Pull the floss against the sides of the tooth, forming the letter "c". Carefully scrape each side of the tooth.

Move to a clean area of floss and work the floss between each tooth.

ACTIVITIES

1. With a partner, children may practice flossing with yarn between each others fingers.
2. Do the flossing maze.
3. Keep track of daily flossing habits.

Click here for Flossing Activity

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