How to floss correctly
Flossing is a crucial part of oral hygiene, often overlooked. Let's dive into the right way to floss your teeth and keep your smile sparkling.
Interdental cleaning is a vital part of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine. By using floss or interdental brushes, you can effectively remove plaque and food particles from the areas between your teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. This helps prevent gum disease, a condition caused by bacterial infection of the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Additionally, interdental cleaning can help reduce bad breath, as bacteria trapped between teeth can produce unpleasant odours.
Interdental Brushes vs Dental Floss
Interdental brushes and dental floss are both effective tools for interdental cleaning, but they have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Interdental brushes are particularly useful for cleaning larger gaps between teeth, such as those caused by orthodontic appliances or missing teeth. They can also be more efficient for people with dexterity issues. Dental floss, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used to clean tight spaces between teeth. It is also effective at removing plaque and food particles from the gum line. Ultimately, the best choice for interdental cleaning depends on individual needs and preferences.
How To Floss Correctly -
Preparation: Cut off about 18 inches of floss. Wind most of the floss around your middle fingers, leaving a few inches to work with.
Insertion: Gently insert the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Avoid forcing the floss, as this can damage your gums.
C-Shape: Curve the floss around the tooth in a C-shape, making sure to go below the gumline. This allows you to clean both the tooth surface and the gumline.
Cleaning: Gently slide the floss up and down the side of each tooth, using a gentle rubbing motion.
Rinse: Rinse your mouth with water to remove any loosened plaque and food particles.
Repeat: Repeat steps 2-5 for each tooth, using a clean section of floss each time.
Our hygienists recommend flossing in the evening before brushing.
Confused about flossing or have other dental questions? Our friendly hygienists are here to help! Book an appointment today for personalised advice.