How To Properly Floss Your Teeth

Aside from proper brushing, proper flossing is another habit that individuals should learn for proper oral care. Flossing helps in removing food particles and plaque that accumulate in areas that may not be easily reached by a toothbrush. Flossing specifically targets the areas under the gumline and between your teeth. Even though you brush your teeth two or three times a day, daily flossing is still recommended to protect your teeth from cavities, tooth decay and gum disease. With proper guidance from Rochester Dental Health Affiliates very own dentist in Rochester, MN, you can certainly look forward to beaming your bright smile.

Floss your teeth at least twice a day before brushing. You can also use a mouthwash to swish away any debris of food in your mouth. There are a number of floss varieties you can choose from so pick the one that you are comfortable using. You should choose a floss that fits between your teeth and glides easily. Choose also the floss that fits your mouth and your condition.

Use approximately 18 inches of floss. Wrap the floss a few times around your middle finger and just leave 1 or 2 inches of floss in the center between your two middle fingers. Always be gentle when you are flossing or your gums may get hurt or irritated. Just follow the curves of your teeth and everything will be fine. Floss up and down, not back and forth. This method will be helpful in removing the food particles along your gumline. Flossing is most effective when followed by proper brushing.

Two major types of floss are available. You can choose between the nylon or multifilament and PTFE or monofilament floss. Being entirely made up from numerous strands of nylon, the multifilament floss is prone to tears or shreds. The monofilament floss is more tear-resistant but is also more expensive.