Perhaps you have heard flossing is good for your teeth hygiene. You might not be able to floss properly. Proper flossing removes food particles and plaque from places a toothbrush can’t reach.
To prevent gum disease and tooth decay, it is highly recommended that you floss daily.
To maximize the benefits of flossing, you should use this technique:
- Begin with 18 inches. Wrap the floss around your middle finger. Keep a few inches between the ends for the next step.
- The floss should be held taut between your thumb and index fingers. You can slide it between your teeth by gently sliding it between them.
- Wrap the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure it reaches below the gum line. You should not force the floss or snap it as this can cause damage to fragile gum tissue.
- As you move from one tooth to another, floss regularly.
- The same motion is used to remove floss from your teeth.
What Floss Type Should You Use?
There are two options when it comes floss.
- Nylon floss (or multifilament).
- PTFE (monofilament floss).
Nylon floss is available in waxed and unwaxed versions, as well as in many flavours. This floss is made of multiple strands and can be easily ripped or shrunk, especially between teeth with tight contact points. Although PTFE is more expensive, single filament floss (PTFE) slides easily between teeth and in tight spaces. It is nearly impossible to shave. If used properly, both types of floss can be used for removing plaque and other debris.
If regular floss is too difficult to use, you can use floss picks and water flossing. No matter what your routine, cleaning between your teeth can help keep your smile sparkling.