Understanding how to floss your teeeth is important in order to maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime. Have you ever wondered why flossing is crucial for your oral health? Let’s explore the importance of flossing, its benefits, and the correct steps to ensure a healthy smile. Don’t forget, scheduling a dental cleaning every six months complements your flossing routine for optimal oral health.
Flossing Your Teeth Versus Brushing Your Teeth
Flossing serves a vital purpose in your daily oral care routine. While your toothbrush can clean the surfaces of your teeth, it can’t reach the tight spaces between them. That’s where floss comes into play. Flossing effectively removes plaque and food particles from these hard-to-reach areas, preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria.
Types of Floss
There are two main types of dental floss available:
- Nylon (Multifilament) Floss: This type is made up of many nylon filaments woven together. While it’s cost-effective, it can shred when used, especially in narrow gaps between teeth.
- PTFE (Monofilament) Floss: Although slightly more expensive, monofilament floss is the go-to choice for tight spaces. It slides easily between teeth and is less likely to shred during use.
Brushing and Flossing: The Right Order
The best practice is to brush your teeth before flossing. Brushing initially removes surface debris and prepares your mouth for flossing. Flossing, in turn, dislodges food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the gum line. After flossing, it’s recommended to brush again to eliminate the dislodged particles and allow the fluoride in toothpaste to reach deeper between your teeth.
How to Floss Your Teeth Properly
Flossing correctly can be a game-changer for your oral health. Follow these steps:
- Cut about 18 inches (46cm) of dental floss using a dispenser with a built-in cutting blade.
- Wind equal lengths of floss around both middle fingers, leaving about two inches (7cm) of floss to work with.
- Hold the floss tightly between your thumb and index fingers. Gently guide it between your teeth, moving it back and forth as you go down the tooth.
- Be cautious when flossing between closely spaced teeth to avoid snapping the floss against your gums.
- Form a C-shape with the floss around each tooth and move it gently up and down, going as deep as comfortably possible.
- Repeat this process for all your teeth, top and bottom.
- Advance to a clean section of floss between your teeth and wind the used portion around a middle finger.
- If your gums bleed during or after flossing, consult a dentist, as it could indicate gum disease.
The Reward of Regular Flossing
Flossing may seem cumbersome initially, but with practice, it becomes a habit. The effort you invest in flossing pales in comparison to the benefits it brings. By diligently flossing and scheduling dental cleanings every six months, you are on the path to maintaining a healthy, cavity-free smile for a lifetime.
We Make it Easy To Maintain Your Smile in Port Coquitlam
At Encore Dental Clinic your Port Coquitlam Dentist, we understand that maintaining a healthy smile is essential. We’re here to make it as convenient as possible for our Port Coquitlam community. Beyond offering comprehensive dental services, we prioritize your comfort and convenience. Our scheduling options are designed to fit your busy life, and our friendly team ensures every visit is stress-free. So, while you’re committing to regular flossing and dental check-ups, know that we’re your trusted partner in this journey to a lifelong healthy smile. Schedule your dental appointment today!
