2019 Volume 57 Issue 1 Pages 30-36
We conducted a questionnaire survey of parents regarding oral cleaning and use of dental floss by their elementary school-age children to determine the rate of dental floss usage in childhood. The following results were obtained.
1.In terms of daily toothbrushing, the proportion of positive responses to “My child brushes his / her teeth without any help” tended to increase as school grade increased. In line with this, responses to “I brush my child's teeth for him / her” tended to decrease with increasing grade.
2.The percentage of children using dental floss regularly (every day or frequently) was 18.4%, with no significant difference related to school grade.
3.In terms of dental floss usage, the proportion of children in earlier grades using dental floss with parental assistance was greater than 50%. Moreover, the proportion of children flossing by them selves tended to increase as the school grade increased.
4.Reasons for flossing were “Dentist's or dental hygienist's recommendation”, followed by “My family or I (respondent) use (or have used) dental floss.”
5.More than 65% indicated that their children visit a dental clinic “Regularly,” and the response “When he / she gets a cavity” tended to increase as grade increased.
The present findings suggest that elementary school age is an important time to increase awareness of the importance of good oral hygiene practices for later life. To help them familiarize themselves with the habit of flossing in early childhood under parental supervision, it is important to teach not only children but also their parents and other family members how to properly use dental floss.
