I often get asked questions such as “do I really need to floss”, “how often should I floss”, and “what teeth should I floss?” My response is “You should only floss the teeth you want to keep!”
Next to brushing, flossing is the most important thing that you can do to ensure healthy teeth and gums. It is important to floss at least once a day. Follow these tips for proper flossing technique:
- Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.
- Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.
- When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
- Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions.
- Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth.
- Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.
People who have difficulty handling dental floss may prefer to use another kind of interdental cleaner. There are many types of flossers available on the market that come with handles to make flossing easier. These are especially helpful for people with arthritis or other health conditions that affect their dexterity.
Thank you for reading. I encourage you to leave questions or comments below. To learn more about my practice, please visit www.elitesacramentodentist.com
Your friendly dentist,
Dr. Sarah Po
June 3, 2010