Did you know that flossing could be just as important as brushing your teeth? This could explain why dentists always ask if you were flossing at home, or why dentists give away dental floss like it is Halloween candy. Brushing your teeth can clean plaque from the chewing surfaces of your teeth, but plaque also likes to hang out between your teeth in places where your brush can’t reach. So the question becomes if flossing is so important to your oral health, how do you make sure you’re doing it correctly?
You will want to cut a piece of dental floss that is approximately 18 inches long and wrap the ends of a small section around your index fingers. You will want to keep the section fairly tight as you slide it gently between your back teeth and move your hands in a smooth up and down motion. Before going on to the next tooth, be sure that you move on to a new section of dental floss. It is not reusable and becomes ineffective after use.
There are many different types of dental flosses and you can decide which one suits your preferences. Regardless of what kind you select, it is always wise to make sure that your floss is approved by the ADA.
If you have any questions regarding flossing or your dental health, please call CrossPointe Dental at 801-224-7337 today. Dr. Damon P. Swenson is happy to treat people in Orem, Utah, and the surrounding areas.