3 Rules for Better Flossing
Flossing is a vital step in your daily oral hygiene routine and an important part of preventive dentistry. When you skip flossing, you’re leaving nearly 40% of your tooth enamel untouched. Flossing every day removes plaque and food particles from between teeth that your toothbrush can’t. Watch our video to learn more.
The 3 Rules of Flossing
There is a right way and a wrong way to floss. In this video, Dr. Krochak shows you how to floss correctly and gives you 3 easy rules to remember.
Rule 1: Use your middle finger. Most people use their index fingers because they are the most dexterous, but you need to keep your index fingers free to control the floss. Wrap the floss around your middle fingers and use your index fingers to move the floss.
Rule 2: Tighten up that floss! If the floss is too long, you won’t be able to clean your teeth well. Keep your index fingers about a half inch apart on the floss.
Rule 3: Curve it like a C. Remember C as in clean. Curve the floss around the tooth you are cleaning. Do one side first, going slightly under the gum, and then do the other side the same way, curving around it the way Dr. Krochak demonstrates in the video.
Here are some other tips for maximizing your flossing routine:
- Consistency is King: Floss once a day, every day.
- Be Gentle: Keep the pressure light and don’t “snap” the floss against your gums.
- Up and Down: Gently move the floss up and down to remove plaque. Do not use a sawing motion.
- Both Sides: Make sure you clean both sides of every tooth, even the back of the last molars.
- 18 Inches (more or less): That is the amount of floss you want to make sure you will have a clean section for each tooth.
If Your Gums Bleed
You might notice some bleeding, especially if you have changed your flossing routine. This is often a sign of gingivitis or a buildup of bacteria. Bleeding should stop within a week if you keep flossing. Contact us if it doesn’t.
Keep up your daily oral hygiene routine to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Call to schedule your regular check-up and cleaning at our office located on the Upper East Side.
