Flossing: How to do it Right

Many people don’t know how to floss properly.  The dental therapists and hygienists at Wyndham Dental can show you some tips that will help you improve your technique.

When to Floss:

Flossing should be a part of your daily routine.  Preferably you would floss after each meal, but we know this is not always realistic.  Your goal should be to at least floss once per day.  A great time to do this is at night, before bed, and after you’ve brushed your teeth.

Tips to Help with Better Flossing:

 There is more to flossing than just sliding a string between your teeth and pulling it back out.

• If using traditional floss, then gently slide the strand down in between your teeth. Excessive force can cause you to cut your gums, so you will want to be careful.
• Clean in between your teeth by wiggling the floss up against the sides of each adjacent tooth. If you can, slide the floss down into the gum, and clean this area as well.
• Once you’re done cleaning, you can slide the floss back out through the top of the tooth. If you have restorative dental work that you’re worried about catching, you may just want to pull the floss through at the gum line instead of straight up.

If you have any dental bridges or implants, it’s important to keep those areas healthy, too.  Your hygienist or dental therapist can show you how to properly clean these areas.

Other forms of floss other than traditional strings or tapes are available.  A floss pick may be easier for some to use.  Also, water flossers and air flossers are highly effective.

Wyndham Dental has been serving the Wyndham community for over 30 years.  We’re here to help you keep your smile healthy for life.  Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.