Flossing is one of the cornerstones of an effective oral hygiene regimen. Flossing at least twice a day can make the difference between a healthy mouth and long term, chronic issues with gum disease.
Sometimes there is the misconception that flossing is little more than running a piece of floss, up and down between your teeth. In reality the spaces between your teeth are only one part of the landscape exploited by bacteria in your mouth. The gum line itself is a critical battle ground between a healthy mouth and the rigors of chronic gum disease.
If the spaces between your teeth are particularly tight you might want to try using waxed dental floss as it slides into tough spaces easier than unwaxed floss.
An effective flossing technique starts by cutting off a section of floss roughly 16 to 18 inches long. You can wrap the excess floss around your middle fingers. Use a firm grip to hold a small section of floss between your thumb and index fingers.
Work the floss around your teeth in a U shape and gently work it into the space between your gum line and the tooth. Carefully use the floss to remove any food particles or unseen plaque from the gums. On larger teeth like molars this might require three motions to focus on the rear and front of the gum line.
Be sure to also floss behind the all of your back teeth. This is a commonly ignored or forgotten spot where food particles and bacteria can hide.
If you have questions about your flossing technique please feel free to call us at 620-231-6070 or ask the hygienist at your next appointment. We look forward to seeing you!