Often people don’t take too much care with flossing. Some people even skip it completely, because they think brushing is good enough. If that sounds like you and you'd like to do a better job flossing, here are some tips to help you along.
Proper brushing does a great job of cleaning the exposed surfaces of your teeth. But it's important to remember that flossing is the only way to remove the plaque and bacteria that builds up between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Regular flossing will improve your oral health, and keep your breath fresh, too. So if you’re not flossing regularly, it’s time to start!
If you already floss, but want to do a better job at it, here are a few tips to help you along:
Be Gentle
There is no need to floss vigorously between every tooth, sawing up and down over and over with force. This kind of flossing can cause damage to your gums. A gentle yet firm motion, moving up and down the sides of each tooth just a couple of times, should be more than enough to prevent plaque buildup.
Consider Flossing First
Flossing does a great job of removing plaque and other bacteria from between your teeth. Sometimes those particles land on the exposed surfaces of your teeth where they could continue to damage your enamel. Try flossing before you brush so that you can brush away those particles, providing you with a more thorough cleaning. If you want to go the extra mile you can brush, then floss, and finally rinse with mouth wash or water.
Choose The Right Floss for You
There is a wide range of floss styles to choose from: thick, fine, waxed, unwaxed, ribbon, or comfort floss. There is also an assortment of picks, water flossers, or pre-threaded flossers. Choose the product that works best for your unique smile, and that you find easiest and most comfortable to use. The more positive the experience, the more likely you are to floss regularly. Your dentist can help you choose an option that works best for your lifestyle and your smile.