Flossing should be an important part of your daily dental health care routine. However, many people choose not to floss because they consider it awkward, painful, or useless. This is because they are not flossing correctly. Here are some tips from Aberdeen Dentistry on how to floss the right way.
Only Use Clean Floss For Each Tooth
Many people try to economize by using too short a piece of floss, which forces them to reuse sections of floss in order to get all of their teeth flossed. This can reintroduce bacteria and plaque from between your teeth into your mouth, which pretty much defeats the purpose of flossing. You should use at least 18 inches of floss and always slide the floss to a clean area when you move to the next tooth.
Choose Your Weapon
There are many different kinds of floss and flossing tools available. The best kind of floss is considered to be PTFE, or monofilament, floss, which is highly resistant to shredding. People who have trouble getting floss between their back teeth should use a floss holder. People who have sensitive teeth or have just been through Dental Procedures in Lake Worth FL may not be able to tolerate conventional floss but need to use a water flosser. Ask your dentist how to use this correctly.
Flossing Motions
Use about an inch of floss between your fingers for each tooth. Slip the floss in between the teeth. When it reaches the gumline, curve the floss into a C-shape to get under the gumline. Gently move the floss against the teeth to clean the sides. Avoid yanking the floss out from between your teeth. If you keep having floss get stuck between your teeth, talk to your dentist about alternative floss materials or flossing tools.
You Can Floss While Wearing Braces
One of the most common Dental Procedures in Lake Worth FL is getting braces. Your dentist can show you how to floss. Parents should floss their children’s teeth if they are too young to to it themselves. Use waxed thread, which is less likely to shred. Gently slip floss under your brace’s main wire and then slide between teeth in an up and down motion. Do this for each tooth. You can connect with them on Facebook for more updates!