Proper Flossing Technique

Flossing may be a difficult habit to get into, but it’s one that our Bellevue dentist strongly advises. Good flossing can save you from a lot of tooth decay, and is in many ways more important even than brushing in terms of maintaining a clean mouth. Consider the following flossing routine to see if your own habits are up to the task.

• Choose a floss that works for you. If you have narrow spaces between your teeth, look for a narrower floss.
• Floss at least once a day, preferably before your final brushing of the day.
• Draw a length of floss about as long as your forearm (perhaps about eighteen inches). You should then wind either end around your index fingers such that you’re holding about two inches between your hands. As you floss, unwind from one finger while winding up on the other to make sure you’re always flossing with clean floss.
• Begin flossing, maneuvering the string into the space between your teeth and between your back teeth and gums. Make sure that you get both edges of all teeth, pulling the floss into a “V” shape against either surface as you go.
• Be gentle. Do not saw at your gums.