Good oral hygiene isn't just about brushing twice daily. It's equally important to floss every day - and use a good technique.
When you visit your dentist or hygienist they will often ask if you've been flossing every day. Be honest! They can tell if you haven't been flossing daily. Take your dentist's advice and get into a good routine of flossing every night.
When you skip flossing, plaque can build up between your teeth making it harder to keep them clean and increasing your chance of needing dental treatment, such as a filling.
Get the most out of your daily flossing session by following the below tips.
How to choose the right floss
The first step to a good daily flossing routine is choosing a good quality product that is easy to use and simply get between your teeth. You can choose dental floss in waxed and unwaxed versions. It's up to you which one you prefer to use.
How to follow a good daily flossing routine
- Start with about 20cm of floss. Loop 1/3 around one index finger and 1/3 around your opposite index finger.
- Place the floss between your thumb and index fingers and pull tightly.
- Gently guide the floss between your teeth, starting at your back molars and working your way forward.
- When the floss meets the gumline, pull to the side to make a 'c' shape against one tooth, push-pull motion and slide up and down, and then move to a new area of floss and repeat on the opposite tooth before moving between the next two teeth.
- Discard floss when you're done.
Tips and Tricks
- Like brushing, you should floss every night before going to bed.
- If you're not sure which floss to use talk to your dentist or hygienist for their recommendation.
- Flossing only takes a few minutes of your day and your smile will thank you for it!
Source: Colgate