Floss your Teeth

Floss is Boss

Brushing and flossing your teeth daily will help to ensure the wellness of your teeth. Flossing helps clean teeth in the areas that brushing cannot reach, between the teeth and under the gum line. Flossing and then brushing helps remove plaque. Left untreated, plaque deposits can eventually lead to gum disease and tooth decay.

Tips for easier flossing.

  1. Wrap the ends of an 18" section of floss around your middle fingers.
  2. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, with about 1" of floss between them.
  3. Gently work the floss between your teeth. When you reach the gumline, curve into a "C" shape against the tooth.
  4. Gently scrape up and down each tooth, including your back teeth. Unwind new floss as needed.
  5. Your gums may bleed the first week until the plaque layer is broken up, bacteria removed, and your gums heal.

People with limited dexterity or arthritis may wish to try dental floss holders or intra-dental cleaners. Ask Dr. Anderson, Terri or Judy about the variety of flossing options if you are having difficulty flossing your teeth. They will be more than happy to demonstrate proper flossing techniques.