The Benefits or Flossing & Flossing Techniques
For many patients, flossing is an area that could use improvement. Flossing teeth benefits more than just between the teeth; it contributes to overall oral health and hygiene. In addition to traditional dental floss, there are many flossing tools available today that make flossing your teeth an easy process. Learn more from Medical Center Dental Group.
Flossing Benefits
Flossing your teeth serves multiple purposes at the same time. Even if you brush and rinse your mouth thoroughly, food particles and other debris can remain stuck in the spaces between your teeth. Flossing removes these particles while at the same time, helps remove plaque that has built upon the surface. Removing plaque regularly helps prevent a build-up that can eventually lead to tartar or decay.
Flossing Tools
Traditional dental floss still remains popular. Still, if your tooth anatomy or dental devices make it difficult to use traditional floss, there are several other tools that are able to get the job done successfully. Dental floss sticks are easier for some individuals to maneuver because they do not require as much dexterity in the fingers. Children, those with arthritis, or individuals on the go often prefer flossing sticks over traditional floss. Patients with orthodontic devices are unable to use string flossing methods, so a water flosser is another option for food and debris removal. Water flossers also work well for individuals with crowded teeth who have difficulty reaching all areas of the mouth with string floss.
Flossing Techniques
Your flossing technique depends on the type of tool you are using. Water flossers can be tricky to use, but once you have learned to direct the water pressure correctly, they become more convenient. Stick flossers should be pushed gently between two teeth at a time and moved back and forth in a zigzag motion before removing. This action is repeated until the spaces between all teeth, top, and bottom, have been cleaned. Traditional string flossing techniques can vary, but a similar method is usually followed.
- Remove between 18 and 24 inches of string floss from the floss container.
- Wrap the floss around each of your index or middle fingers, leaving about an inch of floss between your fingers.
- Pull the floss taut and slide it gently between two teeth.
- Using a side-to-side motion, work the floss up and down the length of each tooth surface and repeat for the remaining teeth.
Schedule Your Dental Visit Today!
If you are in need of a dental cleaning or have any questions about dental hygiene or the care of your teeth, contact Medical Center Dental today to schedule an appointment. The team is ready to answer any of your questions and take care of all of your dental needs.
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