Flossing daily is an important part of a healthy dental routine. It may also be one of the most overlooked. Are you guilty of not flossing enough? If the problem is simply not knowing how to floss properly and effectively, we’re here to help.
How to Floss:
- Choose a type of floss that suits your needs best. Some common options are waxed, unwaxed, flavoured and unflavoured.
- Take out enough floss for your entire mouth, approximately 45 cm or the distance from your hand to your shoulder.
- Wrap one end around the middle or index finger of each hand, whichever feels more comfortable. Leave two inches of the floss between your hands.
- Hold the floss tightly between your index and thumb. Starting with your top teeth, from left to right, gently push the floss between each tooth and work your way around your entire mouth.
- With the floss between your teeth, wiggle it up and down, as well as in a ‘c’ motion around the base of the tooth and just under the gumline. This will help to reach the plaque stuck in those areas.
- Rinsing after the entire mouth has been flossed will wash out the loosened plaque and debris. You’re finished!
Some fast facts about flossing:
- Flossing cleans 35-40% of your tooth surface.
- It is normal to experience some bleeding for those who are not flossing regularly – when added to a daily dental routine, that will stop.
- Flossing is the best way to prevent gum disease.
- Some studies have shown that flossing could help extend your life by up to six years.
- If using dental floss is proving difficult, there are other options available, such as Waterpik, interdental brushes, and brushes with rubber tips.
Now that you’re armed with all the knowledge you need, it’s time to add flossing to your daily dental health routine! For more information, speak to your dental professionals at Southeast Dental during your next check-up. Call us at 905-471-2002 to book your appointment at our Markham dental clinic.