Flossing every day is a great way to maintain good oral health...
Flossing is an oral hygiene technique that is used to remove plaque from between the teeth, which regular brushing can over look. It is usually done during morning and night brushing sessions or directly after eating when bits of food have become stuck in between the teeth. Although some people see flossing as overdoing it and that it is not needed, almost all dentists are now advocates of flossing and it should be done to maintain oral health at least once per day.
Dental floss now comes in many forms. The traditional method was to use lengths of silk, nylon filaments or plastic. You can still buy regular lengths that you can unravel and snap off accordingly, although floss now commonly comes attached to a plastic toothpick or with a handle.
Most recently on the market are toothbrushes with floss on the handle end and vibrating dental floss, which increase plaque removal by vibrating, similarly to an electric toothbrush. This makes it easier to dislodge food and other debris.
How to floss efficiently? This is a common question. There is a special technique to flossing and many people still do not know how to floss in the right way. The traditional method with a simple length of floss can be done by holding each end by each hand (or wrapping it around your fingers for support). You then force it between the gaps in your teeth and pull it tight against either side, sliding it back and forth to remove plaque or debris.
To add friction is best to go in a diagonal motion, or to pull tightly to one side of a tooth (like a C shape) before pulling it upwards or side to side. A common mistake is to simply pull it back and forth with little friction (it must be diagonal or tight), or going down too far and causing the gum to split and bleed.
Floss with handles or toothpicks work in the same way except you obviously hold the handle for support instead. The toothpick can be used to remove larger bits of debris like food, whereas the floss can go directly in between the teeth for a deeper clean.
Flossing is a great way to prevent plaque build-up. Since the build up of plaque can lead to gum disease, flossing every day is essential for good oral hygiene.
DENTAL CARE NETWORK™ is an Australian network of dentists and dental pratices offering quality, professional dental services such as teeth whitening, wisdom teeth removal and porcelain veneers. Our network features Sydney dentists, Melbourne dentists and dental practices in many locations around Australia.