5 Tips for a Flawless Floss
Many of us have discussed this with our dentist, and the inevitable “you need to floss more” conversation arises. Daniel W. Fridh, DDS, and his team are here to provide five tips for flawless floss to ensure your dentist will be impressed at your next appointment! From proper flossing techniques to cultivating patience and consistency, we’re here to help you achieve the perfect floss.
Whether you require a 6-month routine dental cleaning or more comprehensive dental care, trust Daniel W. Fridh, DDS, for all your dental healthcare needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
The Importance of Flossing
Before we dive into tips and techniques, we need to understand the importance of flossing. Brushing alone is not enough to rid your mouth of all the plaque and food particles from those tough-to-reach spots (like between your teeth and below your gumline); that’s why the American Dental Association recommends flossing. Neglecting to floss regularly can lead to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
Tip #1: Floss First, Brush Second
Flossing first allows you to remove debris and plaque between your teeth, making brushing more effective. After flossing, you can brush away any loosened debris and plaque, leaving your mouth clean and refreshed.
Tip #2: Use Proper Flossing Techniques
The proper flossing technique is crucial for effective plaque removal. Use a piece of floss about 18 inches long, wrap it around your fingers, and use a gentle sawing motion to slide it between your teeth. Then, curve the floss around each tooth in a C-shape and gently glide it up and down the sides of each tooth, making sure to go slightly below the gumline. Be sure to use a fresh section of floss for each tooth so that you don’t transfer plaque or bacteria from one area to another.
Tip #3: Use Enough Floss
Using enough floss is just as crucial as using proper technique. Make sure to use a piece of floss long enough to allow you to wrap it around your fingers and easily reach all areas of your mouth. Not using enough floss can result in incomplete cleaning, leaving your mouth vulnerable to plaque buildup.
Tip #4: Slow Down!
When it comes to flossing, slow and steady wins the race. Rushing through your flossing routine can lead to incomplete plaque removal and potential injury to your gums. Take your time and be gentle to ensure the best possible results.
Tip #5: Patience & Consistency are Key
It’s important to remember that maintaining good oral hygiene takes time and consistency. Keep going even if you don’t see results right away. Keep up your daily flossing routine and be patient – your efforts will pay off in the long run.
With patience and consistency, Dr. Fridh will say, “I see you’ve been flossing,” in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I floss?
We recommend flossing at least once a day, preferably before bed. If you eat foods likely to get stuck in your teeth, such as popcorn or meat, you may want to floss more than once a day.
My gums bleed when I floss – is this normal?
Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation caused by bacteria and plaque buildup around your gumline. If you experience bleeding, be sure to continue flossing gently and consistently. Over time, your gums should become healthier and less prone to bleeding. If bleeding persists, schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss further; together, you may devise a solution, or they may direct you to a periodontist.
Can I use a water flosser instead of traditional floss?
Water flossers can be a great alternative to traditional floss, but they should be used as something other than a replacement. Water flossers can help remove large debris but don’t remove plaque as effectively as traditional floss.
Schedule an Appointment with Daniel W. Fridh, DDS
Remember to floss first, use proper techniques and enough floss, slow down, and be patient and consistent for the best possible results. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to contact us at Daniel W. Fridh, DDS, for high-quality dental care.
And just for fun – we’d like to ask you: What’s your favorite dental hygiene product or tool, and why? Let us know in the comments – we look forward to hearing from you!