Many people are careless when it comes to flossing, some skip it completely because they believe that brushing is sufficient. If that’s you and you want to improve your flossing, here are few tips to help you.
Your toothbrush does a great job of cleaning the exposed surfaces of your teeth, but flossing really is the only way to remove the plaque and bacteria that builds up between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.
If you’re not flossing regularly, it’s time to start! Flossing helps to improve your oral hygiene, and to keep your breath fresh.
If you already floss regularly, but want to do a better job at it, here are a few tips:
Be Gentle
You may believe that you have to floss vigorously between every tooth, sawing up and down over and over with force, but this kind of flossing can actually damage your gums. A gentle yet firm motion is ideal, 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 removes plaque and other bacteria from between your teeth. If some of those particles land on the exposed surfaces of your teeth they may continue to damage your enamel. By brushing after flossing you're able to brush away those particles, providing you with a more thorough cleaning. Alternatively, you can brush, then floss, and finally rinse with water or mouthwash.
Choose The Right Floss for You
There is a wide range of floss styles for you to choose from: waxed, unwaxed, thick, fine, ribbon, or comfort floss. There are also picks, water flossers, or pre-threaded flossers. Choose the product works best for your unique smile, and that you find easiest and most comfortable to use. The easier and more positive the experience, the more likely you are to floss regularly. Your dentist would be happy to help you to choose the option that works best for your smile and your lifestyle.