Flossing should be apart of your daily oral hygiene routine. The American Dental Association (ADA) advocates for daily flossing as an essential part of maintaining your oral health. The ADA recommends thoroughly flossing at least once a day, everyday. Some patients find flossing difficult, or do not understand how to properly floss. Proper flossing technique is essential in the full removal of build up. Asheville dentist office, Red Maple Dental, suggests following these 5 steps for effective flossing.
Flossing: A How To Guide
- Use about 18 inches of floss. Wrap almost all of it around the middle finger of one of your hands. Take the remaining floss and wrap it around the middle finger of your opposite hand.
- Be sure to grasp the floss securely between your thumbs and forefingers.
- Using a gentle back and forth motion, move the floss between your teeth. Do not move too quickly or press too hard.
- When the floss is between two teeth, wrap the floss around one of the two teeth.
- Keep the floss tightly against the the tooth and move the floss up and down the side of the tooth, make sure to motion the floss away from the gums. Repeat this step for each tooth. Do not neglect your molars!
Why Floss?
Tooth decay is the leading cause of cavities, that if go untreated, may results in root canals or tooth extractions. Flossing can help prevent cavities and complex dental procedures. The tartar and plaque that builds between your teeth is caused by the trapping of food particles and bacteria. Plaque that remains between your teeth will eventually harden into tartar that may cause tooth decay. Flossing reaches spaces that brushing can not. Flossing helps to removing plaque and leftover food.
Flossing may also help prevent gum disease. Gum disease is a serious oral health concern that has been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, and heart attacks. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that can spread, causing tooth loss and bone deterioration. Flossing not only keeps your teeth clean and your breath fresh, but may help promote your lifelong health.
Asheville dentist Dr. Shawna Hoffert encourages all of our patients to be proactive in maintain their oral health. With regular scheduled dental cleanings and a diligent at home oral health care routine, you can keep your smile bright and healthy. If you have any oral health concerns, contact our Asheville dentist office Red Maple Dental. We offer experienced and quality dental care for all of our patients.