Is three old enough to allow a child to floss on their own? when trying to floss his teeth, our three year old son keeps trying to grab the floss and saying that he can do it. what is the best age to allow them to floss on their own?

Silverdale, Not : Silverdale, not a big fan of this idea. Just because my 5 year old wants to cut his steak with the sharpest knife in the shed doesn't mean i hand it over. However, ever parent has the authority and responsibility for their own. I would be enthusiastic for your sons eagerness to participate, and i would encourage that. Flossing is rarely needed at this age. But as long as no one hurts themselves, let him play. Just know, for all his effort and good intention he is unlikely capable of being effective. Hope this is helpful, michael i. Wollock, dmd, agd fellow dentistry at suburban square 610-649-0313 www.Dentistryatsuburbansquare.Com.

You : You know mozart was a genius too, and might have to accept the fact that you child is brighter than you. I would let him try, and explain the pros and cons about cutting the gums. If in you observation there is some fine tuning that is required i would go in and do your parental duty. Three years old is definitely early, but what the heck give him a violin too. Dr neil mcleod dds dentistry that lasts - quality that counts.

Not even close: Eye-hand coordination for brushing not there 'til l5-7, flossing 'till 9-10. This is one of those parent things where you have to insist. Let him brush and floss, but you have to get in there after him and clean what he can't. Make it fun. Sing songs, try pea sized portions of various toothpastes, have him sit in your lap facing away from you when you floss him. You have to do this for him!