Do you know how to floss properly? If you don’t you could be asking for trouble. Regular flossing can help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis. Flossing once a day can help remove plaque.
In order to floss correctly you need the right tools. Dental floss is inexpensive and there are several types of floss available including unflavored, flavored, unwaxed, and waxed. Floss holders and electric flossing devices also work well. Dr. Ghahremani from Westwood Family Dental will be able to recommend the best equipment for your particular needs.
Wrap about 18” of dental floss around your middle finger. Wrap the rest around your index finger on your other hand.
Start with your lower teeth using your thumbs to guide the floss between your two front teeth. Gently slide the floss back and forth. Be gentle, as you do not want to cut your gums.
Slowly move the floss around each tooth in the shape of a c. This will help you reach each tooth. Do not forget to floss up and down to get rid of debris and plaque.
Repeat the above between every tooth. If you run out of floss, just unravel what is left on your index finger.
Make sure you floss the back of your molars on the top and bottom. Some people forget to floss the area where tooth decay and gum disease can begin.
Westwood Family Dental recommends that you floss your teeth for two to three minutes once a day, but if you are short on time, even a minute of daily flossing can improve the health of your gums.
