Proper Flossing Techniques You Should Be Using 

You’ve heard it time and time again: in addition to brushing your teeth regularly, you should also be flossing at least once per day, usually before bed. But even if you know that you should be flossing, you may not know why or how to properly floss. The following covers the basics of the importance of flossing, as well as good flossing techniques to practice—

The Importance of Flossing

Flossing on a regular basis is a key part of taking care of your oral health. Some of the main benefits of regular flossing include:

• Removes food particles and plaque that become caught between teeth;
• Removes the bacteria that caused bad breath; 
• Helps to prevent gum inflammation and disease, including the risk of gingivitis; and 
• Helps to keep your teeth looking great by removing plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline, which can lead to yellowing of teeth. 

How to Properly Floss

It’s not just about knowing why you need to floss, but knowing how to floss and when to floss that’s important. As you embark on your oral care routine, make sure to consider the following:

• Floss at least once per day. It’s important to floss at least once per day, usually after brushing your teeth in the evening before bed. However, some professionals advocate flossing twice a day or after every meal.
• Choose the right type of floss for you. There are multiple types of floss out there, including waxed and unwaxed string floss, floss picks, super floss, air flossers, and water flossers. If you’re overwhelmed by the options, speak to your dentist about which may be the most appropriate for you.
• Take your time. If you’re using string floss, you may think that merely placing the floss between your teeth for a second is enough to do the job—but it’s not. You should gently glide the floss up and down between your teeth and form a “C”-like shape with the floss around your tooth, allowing the floss to enter the space between your tooth and your gums. 

Get Help with Flossing from a Professional

If you have questions about flossing technique, how often you should be flossing, the different types of floss out there, or even why you need to floss, a dentist is your best resource. At Distinctive Dental Solutions, our experienced professionals are here to help! Reach out to us directly today to learn more.