When should you start flossing a baby’s teeth?

A: Start flossing your child’s teeth as soon as the wide spaces between teeth disappear. Flossing will remove food particles where a toothbrush can’t reach, keeping gums healthy. (When teeth don’t touch each another yet, a toothbrush cleans all surfaces sufficiently.)

You should floss kids’ teeth once a day, before bedtime. The pre-threaded, disposable flossers with plastic handles (found at most drugstores) tend to be easier to maneuver inside tiny mouths than is a string of regular dental floss.

If your child squirms or cries and the task is a struggle, your kid may have oral sensitivities. Talk to your dentist or hygienist to determine if the benefit is worth the effort at this young age.