Flossing

Flossing is a crucial daily step in maintaining good oral hygiene. Dental floss is a thin string that can be waxed, unwaxed, plain or flavoured. Proper brushing and flossing can help dislodge food particles stuck between your teeth, preventing bacteria and plaque formation. The technique can be awkward at first, but with practice, flossing will become easier.

The American Dental Association recommends that you clean (flossing and brushing) your teeth daily to help deter cavities and gum disease. Proper cleaning will also help to remove plaque, which contains bacteria that feed on food particles present in your mouth. This process leads to the release of an acid that eats away the hard surface of your teeth (also known as the enamel) and leads to cavities. Without proper oral hygiene, the plaque eventually hardens to form tartar, leading to gum disease.

Proper flossing technique

Cut about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers on both hands.
Hold the floss between your thumb and forefinger of both hands
Gently move the floss between your teeth in a rubbing motion. Be cautious to avoid snapping the floss into your gums
Curve the floss into a C shape when you reach near the gum line and gently slide it through the space between the tooth and your gum.
Hold the floss tautly against your tooth and gently rub the sides while moving away from the gum using up and down motions. This motion will remove food particles, and more importantly, it will remove the plaque that builds up.
Repeat the methods for the rest of your teeth.

Although flossing may cause some minor bleeding at first, after a few times, the bleeding should stop. Flossing should be done at least once a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Are you concerned about your dental health? Contact a Campus Dentist clinic near you today, and our team will examine your mouth for any signs of diseases and make recommendations based on your dental needs.