Understanding the importance of using dental floss
Dental floss is an essential part of maintaining oral hygiene. It helps to remove food particles and plaque from areas between the teeth and below the gumline where a toothbrush cannot reach, preventing gum disease and tooth decay. While brushing your teeth twice a day is vital, it’s not enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Using dental floss is equally crucial, and it’s recommended to floss at least once a day.
The correct technique for using dental floss
Using dental floss is simple, but you need to ensure that you are doing it correctly. Break off about 18-24 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers. Hold the floss tight between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it between your teeth, and gently move it back and forth against the sides of your teeth, reaching the gumline. Curve it around each tooth and move it up and down gently to remove any debris, never snapping the floss on your gums. Use a clean section of floss as you move from one tooth to the next.
Choosing the right type of dental floss
When it comes to dental floss, there are various types available, including waxed, unwaxed, flavored, and floss picks. The waxed floss is an excellent option for people with tightly spaced teeth as it slides smoothly between the teeth, and flavored floss can help if you don’t like the taste of regular floss. Floss picks are an excellent option for people with braces as they have a pick at one end, making it easier to remove food particles caught between the brackets. Choose a floss that suits your needs and preferences, and make sure it’s ADA-approved.
Incorporating dental floss into your daily routine
Most people struggle to incorporate dental flossing into their daily routine as they find it time-consuming or forget to do it regularly. However, it’s essential to incorporate it into your dental care routine to ensure optimal oral health. Try to floss after meals or before bedtime. You can also use mouthwash after flossing to rinse away any loosened debris. If you find traditional floss challenging to handle, consider using a floss holder or interdental brush, making it easier to reach between teeth.
Better oral health with regular dental cleanings
Along with regular brushing and flossing, it’s crucial to have regular dental cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and check-up. A professional cleaning ensures that any hard-to-reach areas are cleaned, and the dentist can detect any potential oral health problems before they become serious. Follow these dental care tips, including flossing, regularly, and enjoy better oral health and a brighter smile.
