If you have kids, you know how difficult it can be to teach good tooth-brushing habits. It can take many sessions at the sink to help them learn how to hold a brush, how much toothpaste to use and how to reach all their teeth -- not to mention keeping them still long enough to learn all this.
But once they've gotten the hang of brushing, teaching them how to floss is an important follow-up. Floss is an interdental cleaning device, meaning it helps remove food and debris between teeth that the toothbrush misses [source: ADA]. Flossing helps polish teeth, fights the development of plaque and keeps bad breath at bay. It's never too late to start flossing, but the earlier your kids get into the habit, the better.
Flossing can actually be a fun and easy extension of your kids' oral care routine (no, really!). Following are five practical tips to keep floss in your kids' hands and working through their teeth.