When you visit our office, you will likely be reminded to brush and floss your teeth every day to help prevent cavities and gum disease. If you’re not sure how to floss your teeth properly, these tips can help!
Tips to Floss Properly
1) Break off about 18 inches of floss. Wrap a majority of your floss in one of your middle fingers and the rest around the same finger on the opposite hand.
2) Hold the floss between the thumbs and pointer fingers. This hold is how you will guide the floss.
3) Gently guide the floss between each tooth. Some teeth may require more force than others.
4) When the floss is inserted between teeth, curve it into a C shape and slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth on each side.
5) Gently guide the floss up and down. Repeat for every tooth surface with a new section of the string of floss.
Why Is It Important to Floss Properly?
Daily brushing and flossing will not be painful or cause bleeding for healthy teeth and gums. However, infrequent or improper flossing can cause bleeding gums. Flossing too hard can damage the tissue between your teeth. Being inconsistent or too gentle will not effectively get food particles and bacteria out, thus increasing your risk of bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.
What to Use to Floss Your Teeth
You’ll likely notice many different dental products available in the oral care aisle at the store. These products may include several types of floss, such as traditional string floss, dental picks, and water flossers. Using a combination of these products will likely yield the best results! Choosing a product with the ADA Seal of Acceptance indicates it will be safe and effective. You can also consult with our team for personalized recommendations.
Preventive Care in Travelers Rest, SC
Brushing and flossing are vital parts of good at-home preventive care. Additionally, you should schedule routine cleanings and exams at our office. We offer comprehensive oral healthcare services. Please contact us today to schedule a visit!