We all know we should floss, but how many of us actually do it correctly? Flossing is a cornerstone of excellent oral hygiene, working alongside brushing to keep your teeth and gums healthy. It reaches those tricky spots your toothbrush can’t, removing plaque and food particles that lead to cavities and gum disease.
At Family Dental Clinic in Chichester, we believe that understanding the right technique can make all the difference. Let’s dive into our dentist’s step-by-step guide to flossing properly, so you can achieve that sparkling clean feeling every day!
Why Flossing Matters More Than You Think
Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surface. Flossing tackles the remaining 40% – the areas between your teeth and just under the gum line. Neglecting these spots allows plaque to build up, leading to:
- Fillings: Plaque bacteria produce acids that erode tooth enamel.
- Gum Disease (Gingivitis & Periodontitis): Inflammation, bleeding, and eventually receding gums and bone loss.
- Bad Breath: Trapped food particles and bacteria are a major cause.
Regular, proper flossing is your best defence against these common dental issues.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Flossing Like a Pro
Ready to master the art of flossing? Follow these simple steps for an effective clean:
- Get the Right Length: Break off about 18 inches (45 cm) of floss. This gives you plenty of fresh floss to use for each tooth.
- Wrap It Correctly: Wind most of the floss around your middle finger on one hand, and a small amount around your middle finger on the other hand. This second finger will gather the used floss.
- Guide It Gently: Hold a 1-2 inch (2.5-5 cm) section of floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers. Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion. Never snap it down forcefully, as this can injure your gums.
- Hug the Tooth: Once the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth.
- Slide Up and Down: Gently slide the floss up and down the side of the tooth, moving it away from the gum. Make sure to go slightly beneath the gum line.
- Unwind Fresh Floss: Release the used section and unwind a fresh section of floss from your other finger for the next tooth. Use a clean section for each tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.
- Don’t Forget the Back: Remember to floss the back surface of your very last molars.
Repeat this process for every tooth, both upper and lower, and on both sides of each tooth.
Common Flossing Mistakes to Avoid
- Being too aggressive: Snapping the floss can cut your gums. Gentle is key!
- Not flossing daily: Consistency is crucial for preventing plaque build-up.
- Ignoring certain teeth: Make sure you get every single tooth surface.
- Using the same section of floss: This just moves bacteria around. Always use a fresh section.
Flossing Alternatives (When Traditional Floss Isn’t for You)
If traditional string floss is difficult or uncomfortable, don’t worry! There are excellent alternatives:
Floss Picks
- Convenient, pre-threaded devices that are easy to manoeuvre, especially for those with limited dexterity.
Water Flossers (Oral Irrigators)
- Use a stream of water to remove food particles and plaque. Great for braces, bridges, and those who struggle with string floss.
Discuss these options with our Chichester dental team to find the best solution for your oral health.
When to Floss?
The best time to floss is once a day. Whether you do it before or after brushing is less important than doing it. Many people find flossing before bed is a good routine to remove the day’s build-up.
FAQs about Flossing
Q: Does it matter what type of floss I use?
A: Not significantly. Waxed floss slides more easily, unwaxed can be thinner. Find what works best for you. Dental tape is wider and sometimes preferred for larger gaps.
Q: What if my gums bleed when I floss?
A: A little bleeding initially can be a sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis) due to plaque build-up. Continue flossing gently every day; the bleeding should subside within a week or two as your gums become healthier. If it persists, please contact us.
Q: Can I reuse floss?
A: No. Used floss contains bacteria and food particles. Always use a fresh piece of floss for each session.
Q: How often should I floss?
A: At least once a day for optimal oral health.
Make it a habit!
Proper flossing is a simple yet powerful habit that significantly impacts your oral health. By dedicating a few minutes each day, you can keep your smile healthy, bright, and free from common dental problems.
If you have any questions about your flossing technique, or if it’s time for your regular check-up and clean, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team, here on The Hornet in Chichester. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy smile!
Call Family Dental Clinic in Chichester today on 01243 771171 to book your next appointment.