How to Floss Your Teeth

In order to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, it is essential to regularly remove plaque and food particles from the spaces between teeth and along the gumline. By taking a few minutes each day to gently floss, both children and adults can significantly decrease their chances of developing dental issues. During a regular checkup, the dentist or dental hygienist will demonstrate the correct flossing technique. There is a wide variety of dental floss available, all of which effectively eliminate plaque and food residue from between teeth. According to a study published in the Journal of Periodontology, the choice of dental floss often comes down to personal preference. However, in specific circumstances, one type of dental floss may be more preferable than others. For instance, waxed dental floss may be more suitable for crowded teeth, while dental tape or super floss may be more comfortable and effective in cases where there are gaps between teeth. Different individuals have their own preferences, with some opting for disposable flossers with a plastic handle and attached floss, while others use floss threaders or electric flossers to clean between their teeth.

The Appropriate Way To Floss Your Teeth

When it comes to selecting dental floss, it is crucial to focus on employing the correct technique in order to gently eliminate plaque and food particles without causing harm to the delicate tissues surrounding the teeth. If you are using floss from a roll or dispenser, it is recommended to use approximately 18 inches of floss. Take the floss and wind it around the index fingers of both hands, making sure to leave a few inches of floss in between. Hold the floss between your index finger and thumb, then carefully and smoothly glide it between your teeth and down to the gumline. To effectively remove any trapped plaque and food particles, mold the floss into a “C” shape and slowly move it up and down along the base of each tooth, hugging the side. Repeat this process for the adjacent side of the next tooth and continue until you have flossed all your teeth, including the space behind the last tooth. To finish, release the clean portion of the floss from one hand while winding the used floss around the index finger of the other hand.