Why should I floss my teeth?
Flossing your teeth is an important part of oral hygiene that is often overlooked because it can be uncomfortable, difficult to do and time consuming. The reason why dentists try to encourage you to floss is that flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line, which can help to prevent cavities and gum disease. It is recommended that you floss at least once a day, preferably after brushing your teeth.
Flossing can be done in a few different ways. The most common way is to use a piece of dental floss that is about 30 cm long. Wrap the floss around your middle fingers and hold it tightly between your thumbs and index fingers. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, using a back-and-forth motion. Curve the floss around the base of each tooth and gently slide it up and down the side of each tooth. Be sure to floss both sides of each tooth.
If you find it difficult to use traditional dental floss, there are other options available. Pre-threaded flossers are a great alternative, as they are easier to use and require less dexterity. Interdental brushes can also work well to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth. Water flossers are also a great option, as they use a stream of water to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
No matter which method you choose, it is important to floss correctly. Be sure to use a gentle sawing motion and avoid snapping the floss against your gums. If you experience any pain or bleeding while flossing, be sure to contact your dentist.
Flossing can be done in a few different ways. The most common way is to use a piece of dental floss that is about 30 cm long. Wrap the floss around your middle fingers and hold it tightly between your thumbs and index fingers. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, using a back-and-forth motion. Curve the floss around the base of each tooth and gently slide it up and down the side of each tooth. Be sure to floss both sides of each tooth.
If you find it difficult to use traditional dental floss, there are other options available. Pre-threaded flossers are a great alternative, as they are easier to use and require less dexterity. Interdental brushes can also work well to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth. Water flossers are also a great option, as they use a stream of water to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
No matter which method you choose, it is important to floss correctly. Be sure to use a gentle sawing motion and avoid snapping the floss against your gums. If you experience any pain or bleeding while flossing, be sure to contact your dentist.
