Flossing is a vital part of your daily hygiene. Proper flossing can help improve your dental health while also keeping your teeth white and attractive. Not flossing regularly or incorrect flossing can lead to gingivitis and other problems. In this article, we’ll talk about a few steps on how to floss correctly.

How to Floss the Right Way

Flossing the right way starts with the right set of tools. Although there are a variety of flossing sticks available for sale in pharmacies and grocery stores, traditional thread floss is recommended by many dentists because of its effectiveness. Floss is sold in spools.

1. Choose the right floss

Unwaxed floss is typically considered the best floss because its threads are not bound together and thus offer a little more friction to help remove bacteria and food pieces from your mouth. Waxed floss works also. Choose the type of floss that makes you feel comfortable.

2. Cut a large enough piece of floss

Retrieve an 18 to 20-inch piece of floss that wraps firmly around both of your middle fingers. It’s important to select a piece of floss that’s long enough. If the piece is too short, it will not last very long and can be hard to maneuver.

If the piece is too long, it will waste floss. If you have a hard time gauging how long your floss is, measure it the first time and then estimate the length in future flossings.

3. Insert the floss into the space between your teeth

GENTLY guide the floss in between your teeth in a back-and-forth, sawing motion. When the floss is forcefully snapped into the space between the teeth, it can damage the gums.

4. Create a C shape with the floss

When the floss is in position, create a C shape to hug one tooth in order to slide up and down to scrape the side of that tooth. Repeat this process for all of your teeth, and do not forget the backside of your last molars. Keep moving the floss so that you’re using a new piece of floss for each tooth.

5. Rinse after use

Be sure to rinse afterward, preferably with mouthwash, to remove any debris from your mouth. This will help clean your gums.

6. Consider using a water flosser

Consider complimenting your flossing regimen with a water flosser. Water flossers help remove food debris from those hard-to-reach places.

Doctor’s Personal Flossing Tips

Want to get the most out of your flossing regimen? Below are some flossing recommendations from our dental professionals. Visit your dentist to discuss your flossing routine and get more customized advice.

1. Use a water flosser to remove major debris.
2. Brush your teeth for 2 to 3 minutes with an electric toothbrush and toothpaste.
3. Spit, but do not rinse.
4. Floss with toothpaste is still presents to deliver toothpaste in between teeth.
5. Rinse with water or mouthwash.

See The Dentist

When was the last time you saw your dentist? Remember that twice-annual dental checkups will go a long way to preventing plaque and gingivitis, as well as ensuring the removal of some persistent build-up you are not able to, along with your own home care. Find out from your dental professional when you should make your next appointment for general cleaning.

Your Hutto Dentist is Solis Dental

Is it time to get your teeth cleaned? See your Hutto Dentist at Solis Dental. We have a brand new office with state-of-the-art technology. We offer virtual consults and accept new patients. Book your first appointment here.