Getting kids to floss can feel like a never-ending battle. I remember trying to bribe my little brother with extra screen time, and it barely worked! But good oral hygiene is super important, and finding the right floss can make all the difference. So, I’ve rounded up some of the best floss options that are designed to make flossing less of a chore and more of a breeze for your kids (and you!).
Here’s a quick look at our top picks:
- Cocofloss for Kids: Soft, textured floss with fun flavors.
- Plackers Kids Flossers: Easy-to-grip flossers perfect for little hands.
- GUM Crayola Kids’ Flossers: Flossers with colorful designs and fluoride.
- Dr. Tung’s Smart Floss: Expands to clean effectively and is gentle on gums.
- Reach Kids Flossers: Affordable and easy for everyday use.
Top 5 Best Floss For Kids
1. Cocofloss for Kids
Cocofloss is known for its super-soft and textured floss, and their kids’ version is no different. It’s designed to be gentle on sensitive gums while still effectively removing plaque. The fun flavors, like strawberry and coconut, can also help make flossing more appealing to children.
Pros:
- ✅ Soft and gentle on gums
- ✅ Textured for effective plaque removal
- ✅ Fun flavors kids will love
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than other options
- ❌ Some kids might not like the flavors
- ❌ Can be a bit thick for very tight teeth
Verdict: If you’re willing to splurge on a premium floss that’s gentle and effective, Cocofloss for Kids is a great choice, especially if your child is sensitive to traditional floss.
2. Plackers Kids Flossers
Plackers Kids Flossers are designed with small hands in mind. These flossers are easy to grip and maneuver, making it simpler for kids to floss independently. They come in a variety of fun shapes and colors, which can help make flossing more engaging.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to grip and maneuver
- ✅ Fun shapes and colors
- ✅ Convenient for on-the-go flossing
Cons:
- ❌ Some flossers may break easily
- ❌ Not as environmentally friendly as traditional floss
- ❌ May not reach back teeth effectively
Verdict: Plackers Kids Flossers are a great option for kids who are just learning to floss and need a little extra help with grip and control. They are also very convenient for travel.
3. GUM Crayola Kids’ Flossers
GUM Crayola Kids’ Flossers combine the trusted brand of GUM with the fun of Crayola. These flossers are designed with colorful handles and fluoride-coated floss to help protect against cavities. They’re also sized appropriately for small mouths.
Pros:
- ✅ Colorful and fun design
- ✅ Fluoride-coated floss for cavity protection
- ✅ Easy to use and hold
Cons:
- ❌ The floss can sometimes shred
- ❌ Some kids may find the handle too bulky
- ❌ Not as durable as some other flossers
Verdict: GUM Crayola Kids’ Flossers are a good choice for parents looking for a fun and effective way to encourage their kids to floss, especially with the added benefit of fluoride.
4. Dr. Tung’s Smart Floss
Dr. Tung’s Smart Floss is a unique floss that expands when it comes into contact with saliva, allowing it to clean more effectively between teeth and along the gumline. It’s also clinically proven to remove more plaque than regular floss and is gentle on gums. I personally use this one because it doesn’t hurt my gums!
Pros:
- ✅ Expands to clean effectively
- ✅ Gentle on gums
- ✅ Removes more plaque than regular floss
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit tricky to get used to the expanding action
- ❌ More expensive than some other floss options
- ❌ Some users may not like the texture
Verdict: If you’re looking for a floss that’s both effective and gentle, Dr. Tung’s Smart Floss is an excellent choice. It’s particularly good for kids with sensitive gums.
5. Reach Kids Flossers
Reach Kids Flossers are a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. These flossers are easy for kids to hold and use, and they help remove plaque and food particles from between teeth. They’re a reliable choice for everyday flossing.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable
- ✅ Easy to hold and use
- ✅ Good for everyday flossing
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as some other flossers
- ❌ May not be as effective for very tight teeth
- ❌ Basic design may not be as appealing to some kids
Verdict: Reach Kids Flossers are a practical and affordable option for parents who want to encourage their kids to floss regularly without breaking the bank. These are great for stocking up!
Buying Guide
Choosing the right floss for your child involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Age and Dexterity: Younger children may benefit from flossers with easy-to-grip handles, while older kids might be able to handle traditional floss with some practice.
- Gum Sensitivity: If your child has sensitive gums, look for floss that’s soft and gentle, like Cocofloss or Dr. Tung’s Smart Floss.
- Flavor and Fun: Flavored floss or flossers with fun designs can make flossing more appealing to kids. Experiment with different options to see what works best for your child.
- Ease of Use: Choose a floss that’s easy for your child to use independently, or that makes it easy for you to help them floss.
- Environmental Considerations: If you’re concerned about the environment, consider using traditional floss instead of flossers, or look for flossers made from sustainable materials.
- Dentist Recommendations: Always follow your dentist’s recommendations for your child’s oral hygiene routine.
FAQs
Q: At what age should kids start flossing?
A: Kids should start flossing as soon as they have two teeth that touch. This usually happens around age 2 or 3.
Q: Is it okay for kids to use flossers instead of regular floss?
A: Yes, flossers are a great option for kids, especially when they’re just learning to floss. They’re easier to grip and maneuver than traditional floss.
Q: How often should kids floss?
A: Kids should floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime.
Q: What if my child doesn’t like flossing?
A: Try different types of floss or flossers to see if you can find one that your child likes. Make flossing a fun and positive experience by using flavored floss or letting your child choose their own flossers. You can also floss together to make it a bonding activity.
Q: Can flossing too hard hurt my child’s gums?
A: Yes, flossing too hard can irritate or damage gums. Teach your child to floss gently, using a sawing motion to guide the floss between teeth.
Conclusion
Finding the right floss for your kids can be a game-changer in their oral hygiene routine. Whether you opt for the soft texture of Cocofloss, the easy grip of Plackers Kids Flossers, or the fun designs of GUM Crayola Kids’ Flossers, the key is to make flossing a positive and consistent habit. And remember, a little encouragement and patience can go a long way in helping your kids develop healthy dental habits for life.
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