Are You Flossing Correctly?
Reasons to floss
Isn’t brushing my teeth and using mouthwash enough? Do I really need to floss, too?
YES! Flossing is vital to your oral health and should never be neglected. Flossing once a day is a key step in your daily oral hygiene.
Types of floss
There are many options when it comes to choosing dental floss, with the type and flavor you select being a matter of personal preference. If you have any questions, we would be happy to discuss them with you at your next appointment. The types of dental floss available are:
- Unwaxed floss
- Waxed floss
- Dental tape
- Polytetrafluorethylene floss (PTFE)
- Super floss
- Disposable dental flossers
Water Picks
To pick or not to pick: are water picks better than floss? The real question is, which do you prefer, and which one will you use regularly? The key is consistency. How often you floss or use a water pick is more important than which method you choose. Use the one you prefer, and make sure to do it daily.
Flossing And Dental Work (Braces, Crowns, etc.)
Brushing and flossing are just as important when you have dental work as they are without it. Here are some important tips to help make sure you are flossing correctly to protect your braces or crowns. Proper flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas.
How to Floss
- Break off a long piece of floss; we recommend around 18 inches. Wrap most of one end around the middle finger of one hand, then wrap the other end around the middle finger of the other hand.
- Pinch the floss tightly with your thumbs and forefingers.
- Gently guide the floss between your teeth. Do not push or snap the floss so hard that it hits your gums.
- Curve the floss into a “C” shape against a tooth, then gently slide the floss between the gum and tooth to remove anything that may be trapped there.
- Hold the floss tightly against the tooth and make gentle up and down motions. Repeat until you have flossed all your teeth. Remember to floss the back side of your last teeth. Discard the used piece of floss.
We’ll happily go over these steps with you at your next appointment.
Call our office in Houston, TX to schedule your next visit. We look forward to seeing you!
