Step-by-step Guide on How to Floss

Flossing is a way to remove bacteria and debris accessible to a toothbrush. It involves inserting a thin piece of synthetic cord between the sides of two neighboring teeth and moving it up and down.

Flossing plays an important part in your oral hygiene. Skipping it can cause plaque buildup on your gum and between your teeth, increasing your risk of gum disease and dental decay.

However, simply flossing isn’t enough; you must do it correctly. Improper flossing can cause damage to your gums and teeth.

The most common types of floss include dental tape, standard floss, and super floss.

Let’s look at how to floss.

Steps to Follow When Flossing

Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow when flossing.

· Take at least 18 inches of dental floss and wind it around your middle fingers. Leave out about 2 to 3 inches to work with. You can use different combinations of your index fingers and thumbs to position the floss correctly between your teeth and other areas of your mouth.

· Now gently guide the floss into the gap between the teeth in a rubbing motion, and be careful not to push the floss into the gums. That can leave a bruise or scratch on your gum.

· Every space between the teeth has two sides, and each side is flossed separately to avoid injuring the gum tissue between the teeth that looks like a triangle. Next, slide the floss up and down the tooth’s surface, starting from the highest contact point between the teeth and the gum line. Once at the gum triangle, apply pressure away from it to allow the floss to curve around the tooth’s side, creating the letter C. Do the same on the other side of the space.

· Remove the floss in between your teeth and dispose of it. If it appears brownish or frayed, it means you are removing plaque. Never re-use a section of floss because it can leave behind bacteria, and it won’t be as effective.

· Do the same on every tooth, and use fresh floss as you shift from space to space. Remember to floss the back sides of the molars.

Few Things to Do When Flossing

Try to relax your cheeks and lips when flossing. A common mistake people make when flossing is tightening their cheeks and lips, which makes it difficult for the fingers to get in the mouth.

Don’t open your mouth too wide. Your cheek will create enough room to guide the floss if you open your mouth a little bit.

Choose unwaxed floss. It is thin and easier to move between the teeth.

Stop by Ryan K Dentistry; we offer several services, including general dentistry.

What are The Benefits of Flossing?

Taking out some leftover spinach or a piece of popcorn from between the teeth feels nice. Apart from making your teeth and gums feel and look good, flossing also has other benefits, they include:

Removes plaque

Plaque is the sticky film that builds up along the gum line and between and around the teeth. It forms when bacteria in the mouth combine with sugary or starchy foods and drinks.

The bacteria present in plaque can form acids that eat away the tooth enamel leading to cavities. Therefore, brushing and flossing are essential because it helps to rid of acids.

Plaque buildup can harden and become tartar, increasing your chances of getting gum disease. You should schedule regular visits with our Vernon dentist for regular dental cleanings.

Reduces your chance of developing cavities

A cavity is a tiny hole or opening that develops on the tooth enamel. Flossing daily between the teeth helps clear away plaque buildup and any hidden food debris, reducing your risk for tooth decay.

Contact our dentist in Vernon, BC, if you have cavities and need treatment.

Reduces bad breath

Flossing is a way to ensure you have a fresh smelling breath.

When food gets trapped in the spaces between teeth, it slowly decays. If the food particles aren’t removed, they can cause a foul-smelling breath. In addition, plaque buildup can erode the tooth enamel, which in turn causes gum disease and cavities that can contribute to bad breath.

Prevents gum disease

The bacteria in plaque can cause inflammation which contributes to gum disease. Flossing can help you prevent bleeding gums, tooth and bone loss, and receding gums.