Preventive Dentistry Tips: How to Floss Properly

Flossing is a big part of preventive dentistry. It removes plaques, makes teeth less likely to decay and also reduces the risk of gum disease. You need to clean between your teeth every day, according to the American Dental Association. This can be difficult if you do not know what to do. Follow some tips to make it easier to floss daily.

Have the right tools for preventive dentistry

People often reach for whatever they can find when they get something stuck between their teeth. Unusual items like forks, safety pins and fingernails are common replacements for dental floss. These are not nearly as effective.

Unconventional items can also harm the teeth and gums, so people need to have floss on hand at all times. This is essential for anyone interested in preventive dentistry.

What tools do people need?

String floss is a common choice for people. This option quickly removes food particles that get lodged between the teeth and cause bacteria and plaque buildup.

Those who cannot properly use dental floss can switch to a water flosser. Water flossers can get around braces, bridges and other dental work.

How to floss properly

Those who are interested in taking care of their teeth must floss properly to get the optimal results. Many people use improper techniques and, consequently, end up leaving food particles and bacteria behind.

Use the right amount of floss

People need to cut a string of at least 18 inches when using string floss. This is long enough to floss between each tooth properly.

Secure the floss

Proper form is also important. People must secure the floss by looping it around both middle fingers. Use the thumbs to pinch the floss to keep it in place.

Take short and gentle strokes

Put the dental floss between two teeth. Hug one of the teeth with the floss, forming a C-shape around it. Slide the floss back and forth and up and down. Then, hug the other tooth and repeat the process.

When it is time to move onto the next two teeth, use a fresh section of floss. Otherwise, it is possible to deposit bacteria in between the teeth. Depositing bacteria between the teeth can lead to cavities.

After flossing

People often think they are through cleaning their teeth when they finish flossing. Those who are serious about making it a part of their daily routine need to also have mouthwash with them when they floss.

Flossing frees bacteria from between the teeth, and some of these can end up in the mouth. Rinse with mouthwash to eliminate the remaining bacteria. Then, the mouth will be fresh and clean.

Develop healthy dental habits

Preventive dentistry techniques such as daily flossing will help to keep your teeth healthy between dental checkups. Floss every day and follow the proper techniques. That way, you will reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease and have a healthier smile as well.

Are you considering preventive dentistry in the Long Grove area? Get more information at https://www.longgrovedental.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Can I Play Sports With Dental Implants?

Dentists generally recommend dental implants as a natural choice for replacing missing teeth. If you play sports regularly, especially contact sports, you may be worried about continued participation after having your lost teeth replaced. This article covers what you need to know about playing sports with dental implants.Every sport has required skills, levels of fitness…

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is typically classified as a more severe form of dental anxiety. It leads many people to avoid visiting the dentist altogether, and those who do visit the dentist battle through fear and severe anxiety. The good news is that there are effective ways for a general dentist to help patients who struggle with…

Convenience And Comfort Are Benefits Of Invisalign Therapy

Invisalign® is one of the most popular ways to undergo orthodontic treatment. General dentists are recommending teeth straightening via Invisalign® because of the many benefits that come with it. Having an understanding of these benefits may be helpful to those looking at their options. Keep reading to find out more. Below is an explanation of how comfort…

Smile Makeover Options For Damaged Teeth

If you have a damaged tooth, perhaps due to trauma or infection, the dentist will work with you to choose the proper smile makeover plan to adjust your smile. The goal is to restore the function of the teeth while making them cosmetically appealing. The treatment strategy will meet your specific needs and achieve the…

Recent Posts

Can I Play Sports With Dental Implants?

Can I Play Sports With Dental Implants?

Dentists generally recommend dental implants as a natural choice for replacing missing teeth. If you play sports regularly, especially contact sports, you may be worried about continued participation after having your lost teeth replaced. This article covers what you need to know about playing sports with dental implants.Every sport has required skills, levels of fitness…

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is typically classified as a more severe form of dental anxiety. It leads many people to avoid visiting the dentist altogether, and those who do visit the dentist battle through fear and severe anxiety. The good news is that there are effective ways for a general dentist to help patients who struggle with…