the Best Way to Floss Your Teeth

Flossing is one of the most effective ways to prevent dental issues such as cavities and gum disease. It helps remove plaque from between the teeth and under the gums, where toothbrushes cannot reach. Flossing can help eliminate harmful bacteria, prevent plaque buildup, and prevent decay, and keep your gums healthy.

What is flossing?

Flossing is a type of oral hygiene that involves cleaning between the teeth that are closely spaced or in areas where floss cannot reach, such as under bridges or braces and around dental implants. You remove plaque and food particles that get trapped in these areas in between your teeth. Plaque that is not removed can lead to tooth decay and gum disease as well as bad breath. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth first and then clean in between your teeth with dental floss or another interdental cleaner. You can use water or a mouthwash after flossing to help rinse away any remaining debris in your mouth.

Daily flossing helps to remove plaque buildup from food particles between brushings. It can help prevent cavities, gum disease and even tooth loss. It is best to use short strokes when flossing in order to thoroughly clean the areas between your teeth. This includes both your top teeth and bottom teeth. When flossing your teeth, you should be careful not to accidentally cut your gums. This can cause bleeding and can create an infection. When you begin flossing, you may notice some blood at first as your gums become healthier and stronger. This is a normal part of the healing process.

Benefits of flossing

Flossing removes plaque from between the teeth, where toothbrushes can’t reach. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth and causes tooth decay and gum disease. Cavities are holes that form in the outer layer of your enamel when plaque bacteria is allowed to accumulate, so floss can help prevent cavities and promote healthy teeth and gums.

According to the American Dental Association, you should floss at least once per day to remove plaque and germs between teeth. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, see your dentist as soon as possible for a cleaning to remove the buildup. If you have trouble reaching your back teeth with the floss, ask your dentist about an interdental cleaner such as dental tape or a water flosser.

In addition to removing plaque, flossing can also help prevent bad breath by removing food particles stuck in your mouth. A buildup of food particles can cause an unpleasant odor in your breath. To fight bad breath, you should also brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

How to choose a good floss

Choosing a brand can be difficult because there are so many options! Here are a few things to look for when choosing a floss.

First, you want to find a string that glides between your teeth without getting snagged or stuck. Many brands add texture to their floss to make flossing easier. Some even have wax on the ends to help it slide between teeth.

Next, choose a flavor you like. There are all kinds of mint and fruit flavors out there so you can find one you enjoy. You may even want to get a few different types of floss to alternate between so your mouth doesn’t get used to one flavor and won’t react as much to it the next time around.

If you’re having trouble finding a brand that works, ask your dentist for recommendations. He or she may have a favorite that works especially well for patients. This can help narrow down your choices so you can find a brand you love!