You may have heard flossing is beneficial for your oral hygiene. But, are you wondering how and why?
Proper flossing is a way to remove food particles and plaque from places that a toothbrush cannot reach, such as under your gumline or between your teeth. It is strongly recommended to floss every day, as plaque buildup can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
The following technique is recommended to maximize the benefits of flossing:
- Start with 18 inches of floss. Wrap most of it around your middle finger. Leave a few inches for the next step.
- You will hold the floss tautly between your index and thumb fingers. Slide it between your teeth gently.
- Gently wrap the floss around each tooth’s base, making sure to reach below the gumline. Do not force or snap the floss as it can cause damage to delicate gum tissue.
- As you go from one tooth to the next, floss cleanly.
- Use the same motion to remove floss from teeth.
Which floss type should I use?
You have two types to choose from when it comes to floss
- Nylon floss (or multifilament).
- PTFE (monofilament floss)
Nylon floss comes in waxed or unwaxed versions and in many flavors. This floss is made up of many strands nylon and can sometimes be ripped or shredded, especially when it comes to teeth that have tight contact points.
Single filament floss (PTFE) is more expensive but slides easily between teeth and can be used even in tight spaces. It is almost impossible to shred. Both types of floss can be used to remove plaque and other debris if they are properly used.
You can also use floss picks or water flossing if regular floss is difficult to use. Cleaning between your teeth is a great way to keep your smile shining, no matter what you do.
You should use about 18 inches of floss. Leave a few inches for the end-user.
Follow the curves of you teeth gently.
Make sure you clean below the gumline. However, avoid putting the floss in your gums.