top of page

The Importance of Flossing

Writer's picture: Motcomb Street DentistMotcomb Street Dentist

At Motcomb Street Dentist, we believe that a great smile starts with good oral hygiene practices. Flossing is a key part of the oral hygiene routine  that often gets overlooked. While brushing your teeth twice a day is essential, it isn’t enough to remove all the plaque and food particles that accumulate between your teeth and along the gum line. 


The benefits of flossing:


1. Prevents Gum Disease: Plaque buildup can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Regular flossing removes plaque from hard-to-reach areas, reducing your risk of developing periodontal diseases.


2. Reduces Cavities: By cleaning between teeth, flossing helps prevent the formation of cavities in areas that your toothbrush can't reach.

3. Fresher Breath: Removing trapped food particles and plaque helps maintain fresher breath.


4. Overall Health Benefits: Good oral hygiene is linked to overall health. Reducing bacteria in your mouth lowers your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.


How to floss correctly:


1. Use Enough Floss


2. Hold the floss taut between your fingers


3. Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a rubbing motion. Avoid snapping the floss into your gums


4. When the floss reaches your gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth


5. Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions.


6. Repeat this process for each tooth, using a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.


Types of flossing tools:

There are several flossing tools available to suit different needs and preferences.


1. Traditional Floss: the most common type of floss, it is effective and widely used


2. Floss Picks: These plastic tools have a small piece of floss stretched between two prongs, making them convenient for on-the-go flossing. They are especially useful for people who find traditional floss challenging to use


3. Interdental Brushes: These small brushes come in various sizes and are used to clean between teeth. They are particularly useful for people with wider gaps between their teeth or dental work that makes traditional flossing difficult.


4. Floss Threaders: These are designed for people with braces, bridges, or retainers. A floss threader helps guide the floss under the dental appliance, making it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas.


We hope this guide helps you incorporate flossing into your daily oral care routine. If you have any questions or need personalised advice, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a visit with one of our hygienists.


Remember, your smile is our priority at Motcomb Street Dentist. Keep flossing and keep smiling!





13 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comentarios


©Motcomb Street Dentist
bottom of page