flossing techniques, oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease, preventive dentistry, Southern Dental Munford, dentist in Munford, TN, dental care, water flossers, floss threaders, interdental brushes, professional cleaning

Flossing Techniques For Optimal Oral Hygiene

April 11, 2024 9:00 am

Do you find yourself rushing through your nighttime oral hygiene routine? Be honest—do you sometimes even skip flossing altogether? You’re certainly not alone, but neglecting this important step of your at-home dental care practice can have negative ramifications on your smile. With the right techniques and tools, flossing can be quick, easy, and incredibly effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.

Make It a Habit

Consistency is key when it comes to flossing. Make it a habit to floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime. Keep floss in places other than your bathroom, like your car or desk, for when you need to freshen up on the go. If you have trouble remembering to floss, try leaving yourself a post-it note reminder on your bathroom mirror. Once you establish the habit, flossing daily will be second nature!

Use Proper Form

When flossing, take an 18-inch piece of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving a couple of inches of floss between your hands. Gently slide the floss between your teeth in a C-shape, using a back-and-forth motion, making sure to curve the floss around the base of each tooth to reach below the gumline. Be gentle yet thorough to avoid injuring your gums or causing bleeding. Check out this video for additional help on form!

Incorporate Other Tools if Needed

In addition to traditional floss, there are several alternative tools available to help clean between your teeth and along the gumline. Water flossers, floss threaders, and interdental brushes are all effective options for removing plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas, especially if you have braces or dental restorations. Incorporating these tools into your oral hygiene routine can complement traditional flossing and ensure thorough cleaning for optimal oral health.

Preventive Dentistry and Oral Hygiene Tips in Munford, TN

Hopefully now you are ready to floss like a pro! For more oral hygiene tips or to schedule your next professional cleaning and exam, contact Southern Dental Munford. We also offer restorative and cosmetic treatments to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

Contact Us



Categorised in: