Flossing Properly is Important
Proper flossing is important for your mouth because it helps to remove the plaque and food particles that can be stuck between your teeth. Flossing can also reach the particles in places that a toothbrush cannot easily reach, such as the gumline and between the teeth. Since plaque build up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, flossing daily is important. Ideally, you can floss twice a day or after each meal, but most of the time flossing once a day is enough.
When you floss, make sure to use the proper technique. This includes starting off with 18 inches of floss, and wind most of the floss around each middle finger. This should leave an inch or two of floss to use. Hold the floss tight between your thumbs and index fingers. Slide the floss gently up and down between the teeth. Curve the floss around the base of each tooth as well. Make sure to never force the floss into an area, as this can cut or bruise the gum tissue. As you floss from tooth to tooth, use clean sections of floss each time. When you remove the floss, use the same back and forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth.
You will also want to use the floss you are most comfortable with. Nylon floss can come as waxed or unwaxed, and also in a variety of flavors. Since this type is composed of several strands of nylon, it can shred easily. Teeth that have tight contact points can result in the floss tearing.
Single filament floss may cost more, but is longer lasting. Even with tight spaces between the teeth, this floss can slide easily in to clean. It is also near shred-resistant. Both types of floss are great at removing plaque, so it is your own preference of which one to purchase. Also remember to come in to see us at least once a year, so we can inspect your teeth and mouth for you.