Flossing Tips to Improve Your Gum Health

One of the most common oral health issues Americans face is gum disease: a progressive, degenerative condition that leads to pain, tooth loss, and bone loss. The good news is gum disease is a preventable and treatable condition. One of the most powerful ways to improve your gum health is to simply floss every day!

Importance of Flossing

Your toothbrush can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth and right under your gums, which are hotbeds for bacterial growth. If not promptly removed, bacteria will accumulate on your teeth and release harmful acids that wear down your enamel and irritate your gums.

Flossing complements your brushing routine by dislodging bacteria and food particles. Just spending a few minutes every day to floss your teeth can vastly decrease your risk of developing gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay!

Flossing Tips

A long piece of floss allows for better control

We recommend using a 18-24 inch piece of floss. Carefully wrap it around your middle and pointer fingers for better control.

Gently scrape between teeth in a “C” shape

Using a one-inch piece of floss at a time, gently insert the floss between your teeth and scrape against the tooth and under the gumline in a slow “C” shape.

Use a clean section as you move along

To avoid using the same piece of floss over and over again, move along to a new one-inch piece of floss as you work your way through your mouth. This will reduce the transfer of bacteria from one area of your mouth to another.

Remove floss gently

Use the same gentle motion to remove the floss from your teeth as you did to get it between your teeth to prevent any injury.

Preventive Dental Care in Bentonville, AR

In addition to maintaining a consistent brushing and flossing routine, visiting your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and examinations will help keep your gums healthy. At Main Street Dental, we provide comprehensive dental care to treat your whole family. We accept a wide variety of financial options to make your treatments affordable too. We’d love to see you at our Bentonville office. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Categorised in: Dental Tips, Oral Hygiene, Preventive Dental Care