Flossing Tips for Maximum Oral Hygiene

If you have not been flossing, then the first step is to get the right floss for you. The best floss is one you can use with ease and minimal discomfort. A few tips to help you with the selection include:

• Using an electric flosser if you have trouble manipulating your hands and fingers
• Trying interproximal brushes on molars that are hard to reach with floss
• Using waxed floss if you have overcrowded teeth
• Using floss with an ADA (American Dental Association) seal

Many people struggle to select the best floss the first time. It may take some trial and error to find what works best for you but all types of floss will help you if you use them consistently.

Once you have the right floss, the next step is to ensure you use the right flossing technique every day. Some technique tips include the following:

• Use a rubbing motion to guide the floss between your teeth
• Rub the floss in a C-shaped motion to ensure it cleans all surfaces of your teeth and gums
• Hold the floss firmly but move it with gentle motions
• Don't slide the floss back and forth between your teeth - that is not effective and might also harm the gums

Like with most things, you will get better at flossing if you keep at it!

Expect some initial bleeding and discomfort if you have not been flossing. Your gum tissue might require time to get used to the floss, as your flossing technique might not be the best.

Don't stop flossing because of the bleeding; it will stop in a week or so. You should only be concerned if the bleeding doesn't reduce with time, at which point you should consult your dentist.

Everyone should floss at least once a day. That way, the bacteria doesn't have time to form plaque and damage your teeth. Unfortunately, many people forget to floss, and the inconsistency hurts their oral health. You can avoid the problem by setting a reminder and choosing a time you are likely to be at home, like at night.

Ideally, you should use a fresh section of floss for each gap between your teeth. Using a fresh section of floss ensures that:

• You don't spread bacteria to different parts of the mouth.
• The floss doesn't get stuck between your teeth due to deterioration
• The floss maintains its effectiveness since it's not damaged

Using pre-cut strands of floss can help you avoid reuse.

Flossing works by dislodging and cleaning bacteria and other debris between your teeth. Some of these things can remain in your mouth by the end of flossing. Get rid of them by rinsing your mouth once you finish flossing.

Your dentist or dental hygienist can educate you on how to floss properly. Oral hygiene education is one of the reasons you should have regular dental examinations.

Hopefully, the above tips will help you maintain a clean and healthy mouth. Calm Waters Dentistry has extensive experience in preventative dentistry. We will help you get an early diagnosis and treatment of dental ailments to avoid costly complications. Contact us for routine or emergency dental care and benefit from our experienced team.