20 Jun How to floss properly and why-Newcastle dentists tell us how
It’s a simple piece of string, that often gets forgotten as part of the daily oral healthcare routine. Dental Floss is a powerful tool that can help prevent cavities and give your overall health a big boost. Find out how to floss properly and you and your smile can enjoy the long-term benefits for your teeth and gums.
Do I really need to floss?
Dental floss dislodges food particles trapped between the teeth and under the gums where toothbrushes can’t reach. Left unchecked, bacterial build-up can lead to cavities, bad breath, and gum disease. Flossing is therefore, just as important as brushing!
Boulton Dental recommends that all patients should floss at least once a day, but not everyone knows the right way to do it.
Use this step-by-step guide to find out how to properly floss your teeth:
Step 1:
Break off about 50cm of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.
Step 2:
Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.
Step 3:
Start sliding the floss between your teeth. Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.
Step 4:
When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
Step 5:
Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth. Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.
Some people like to start their flossing ritual from the upper teeth, working from one end to the other, before turning their attention to the lower level. Others prefer to do it the opposite way. Either way is effective, as long as you floss between all of your teeth every time.
Once you’re finished, throw the floss away. A used piece of floss won’t be as effective and could leave bacteria behind in your mouth. Remember to brush twice a day too!
Need help with your flossing technique?
Please feel free to ask the team at Boulton Dental for further tips on effective flossing. If you like, they can also watch you floss and give you specific instruction on how to improve your technique.
Find out more about general dentistry services provided by our Newcastle dentists here
Book your regular check- up today, call Boulton Dental in Newcastle, Merewether on 4961 6300.
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