What is dental flossing?
Dental flossing is the process of using floss to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Why is flossing important?
Flossing is important because it helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can irritate your gums and lead to gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that can cause tooth loss.
Flossing also helps to remove food particles from between your teeth, which can prevent tooth decay.
How often should I floss?
Dentists recommend flossing once a day, preferably before bed. This is because plaque builds up throughout the day, and flossing before bed helps to remove it before you go to sleep.
What types of floss are available?
There are a number of different types of floss available, including:
- Waxed floss: Waxed floss is the most common type of floss. It is coated with wax, which makes it easier to glide between your teeth.
- Unwaxed floss: Unwaxed floss is not coated with wax. It is more difficult to glide between your teeth than waxed floss, but it is also more effective at removing plaque.
- Floss threaders: Floss threaders are small devices that can be used to thread floss around braces or other dental work.
- Water flossers: Water flossers use a stream of water to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
How to choose the right floss for you
The best type of floss for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you have braces or other dental work, you may need to use a floss threader. If you find that waxed floss is difficult to use, you may want to try unwaxed floss or a water flosser.
Talk to your dentist
If you have any questions or concerns about flossing, be sure to talk to your dentist. They can help you to choose the right type of floss for you and teach you the proper techniques.
Additional questions and answers:
How to floss correctly?
To floss correctly, follow these steps:
- Break off about 18 inches of floss and wrap each end around the middle finger of each hand.
- Gently guide the floss between two teeth, using a c-shape motion.
- Move the floss up and down the sides of each tooth, being sure to go below the gumline.
- Unwind the floss as you go and repeat steps 2 and 3 for each tooth.
What should I do if my gums bleed when I floss?
If your gums bleed when you floss, it is a sign of gum disease. Gum disease is a common condition that can be treated by your dentist. If you have bleeding gums, be sure to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
How can I make flossing easier?
Here are some tips for making flossing easier:
- Use a flavored floss to make flossing more enjoyable.
- Floss in front of a mirror so that you can see what you’re doing.
- Break flossing into smaller tasks. For example, you could floss one quadrant of your mouth at a time.
- Use a floss threader to help you floss around braces or other dental work.
- Reward yourself for flossing regularly. For example, you could give yourself a small treat or sticker every time you floss.
I’m having trouble flossing. What should I do?
If you are having trouble flossing, talk to your dentist. They can show you the proper techniques and help you to choose the right type of floss for you.
How often should I see my dentist for checkups and cleanings?
We recommend seeing us for checkups and cleanings every six months. This will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Or you can contact us today at Sbenati Dentistry to schedule a consultation and let us help you with any of your dental needs. [https://calendly.com/sbenatidentistry/interview]
For more videos:
