Flossing Tips
Gresham, OR
 Flossing is a crucial part of oral hygiene. Most of us brush our teeth regularly, but many of us haven't developed a proper flossing habit.
Whether due to time constraints or simply because it feels like a tedious task, many people don't floss as often as they should. But according to our team at Gresham Dental Excellence, regular flossing can contribute to a lifetime of healthier teeth and gums, so understanding proper technique and integrating it into your daily habits is key. This simple practice significantly improves dental health by removing plaque and food particles where toothbrushes can't reach. These tips will help you make the most of this essential dental care habit.
Why Flossing is Important for Your Oral Health
Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line. These are the areas that the toothbrush can't reach, and where most cavities form. When we reduce the plaque buildup between teeth with flossing, it also prevents tartar, which can only be removed with professional cleaning. A daily flossing routine protects your teeth, gums, and may prevent the need for dental procedures due to tooth decay and gum disease.
Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Flossing
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Break off about 18 inches of floss.
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Wind most of the floss around your middle fingers and leave 1 to 2 inches between them.
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Hold the floss between your thumbs and forefingers.
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Guide the floss between your teeth near the gums, and move it back and forth gently.
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When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth.
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Slide the floss into the space between the gum and tooth.
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Rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss up and down against the tooth surface.
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Repeat this process for each tooth, including the back sides of your last molars.
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Use clean sections of floss as you move between teeth.
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Rinse your mouth after flossing to remove any dislodged particles.
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Floss at least once daily, preferably after you've eaten your last meal. |
Flossing for Kids: How to Teach Good Habits Early
Introduce flossing to children early to encourage lifelong oral health. Start as soon as the child has two teeth that touch. Demonstrate proper technique and assist them until they develop the dexterity to floss independently. Incorporate flossing into their daily routine to remove plaque before bedtime. Use positive reinforcement and rewards to encourage consistency.
Can You Floss Too Much? Understanding the Risks
Daily flossing is essential, but excessive or improper flossing can have negative consequences. Too much force damages gum tissue, causes the gums to recess, and increases tooth sensitivity. It may also wear down tooth enamel at the gum line over time. Flossing more than once or twice daily is unnecessary.
Floss Before Brushing
You can floss at any time of day, as long as it is once daily. However, we recommend flossing before brushing to dislodge plaque and debris and to ensure that fluoride from toothpaste can reach all surfaces of the teeth. You should spend at least two to three minutes flossing every day to ensure that you are cleaning between all teeth and under the gum line.
Use Type of Floss as Per Your Needs
Usually, the type of floss you should use depends on the spacing between your teeth, the shape of your teeth, and any gum sensitivity you might have. Waxed floss will move more easily between tightly spaced teeth, while unwaxed floss is better for teeth with more space between them.
If you have sensitive gums, you can use an extra-soft floss option. Threaders and interdental brushes are helpful for people with braces or other orthodontic appliances.
Use a New Section for Each Tooth
If you are new to flossing, do not push yourself too hard; take your time, and learn the best techniques as you go along. Once you become more adept at flossing your teeth, it will become easier and take less time.
Do Not Snap
Many people think that "snapping" the floss between their teeth is more effective, but it can actually damage the gum tissue and cause bleeding. Instead, use a gentle back-and-forth motion to ease the floss between your teeth and under the gum line to ensure effective cleaning without hurting your gums.
Don't Forget Your Gums
Flossing is not only for cleaning between teeth, but it's also important to clean under the gum line, where food particles and plaque can accumulate. However, when flossing under the gum line, it's crucial to be gentle to avoid injuring the gums. We suggest using a gentle up-and-down motion to clean the space between the gum and tooth, ensuring to avoid forcing the floss or snapping it down into the gums.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flossing
Some common questions and answers about flossing.
How often should I floss?
Floss at least once daily, before bed.
When is the best time to floss?
Floss as part of your night time routine to prevent bacteria growth while asleep.
Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I floss?
Occasional bleeding is common when you first start flossing, but persistent bleeding may mean that you are flossing too hard, or that periodontal (gum) disease is present.
Are floss picks as effective as traditional floss?
They are easy to use, but less effective. However, the use of floss picks is better than not flossing at all. |
