Brushing cleans the tops and sides of your teeth, but flossing cleans in between them where your toothbrush and toothpaste can’t reach. Dental floss removes plaque and debris that adhere to teeth and gums. Flossing also helps to polish tooth surfaces and control bad breath.
You should floss your teeth at least once to twice a day. The best time to floss is right before bedtime.
There are two acceptable methods for flossing:
1. To use the spool method, take an 18 inch piece of floss and wrap the bulk of it lightly around your middle finger. Do the same on your opposite hand and use this finger to take up the floss as it is used.
2. To use the loop method, take an 18 inch piece of floss and tie it in a circle, secured with three knots. After placing all of your fingers except your thumb inside the loop, use your index fingers to guide the floss through the lower teeth and your thumbs to guide the floss through the upper teeth.
Which type of floss should you use? There are a variety of flosses available. All of them do a similar job of removing plaque. Wide floss or dental tape may be beneficial for those with bridge work or space between their teeth. Waxed floss may be easier to fit between tight teeth or restorations.
Reported by ADA
Our hygienist will show you how to use dental floss when you make a hygiene or cleaning appointment.
Call (252) 391-9333 Drs Capps, Bowman & Padgett