The Right Way to Floss: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Gum Health
If you're like many patients at Finch & Dudley Dental in North York, you might admit that flossing isn't your most consistent habit. However, this simple practice is essential for preventing gum disease and cavities between teeth – areas your toothbrush simply cannot reach. Let's explore the proper technique and why it matters.
Why Flossing Is Non-Negotiable
Your toothbrush, no matter how advanced, only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The remaining 40% consists of the tight spaces between teeth and just below the gum line. Without flossing, plaque and food particles accumulate in these areas, leading to:
- Cavities between teeth (interproximal decay)
- Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
- Gum disease (periodontitis)
- Bad breath (halitosis)
Daily flossing removes debris and disrupts bacterial colonies before they can cause damage.
Choosing Your Floss
Several types of floss are available, and the best choice depends on your preferences and dental work:
Waxed floss: Slides more easily between tight contacts. Good for those with closely spaced teeth.
Unwaxed floss: Thinner and may fit better in very tight spaces. Some people prefer the squeaky-clean feeling.
Dental tape: Broader and flatter than standard floss. Ideal for people with wider gaps between teeth.
Floss picks: Pre-threaded floss on a handle. Convenient for on-the-go use, though less effective for proper technique.
Water flossers: Use pulsating water to clean between teeth. Excellent for those with braces, bridges, or dexterity issues.
The Proper Flossing Technique
Follow these steps for effective flossing:
Step 1: Use Enough Floss
Break off about 45 centimeters (18 inches) of floss. Wind most of it around your middle fingers, leaving about 5 centimeters to work with.
Step 2: Hold It Correctly
Grip the floss between your thumbs and index fingers, keeping about 2-3 centimeters taut between your hands. This gives you control and precision.
Step 3: Guide Gently Between Teeth
Slide the floss between teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into your gums – this causes injury and pain.
Step 4: Create a C-Shape
Once the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth. This allows you to clean the side of the tooth below the gum line.
Step 5: Clean Both Sides
Gently move the floss up and down against the tooth surface. Then curve the floss around the adjacent tooth and repeat. Don't forget the back of your last molars.
Step 6: Use Clean Sections
As you move between teeth, unwind fresh floss from one finger and wind used floss onto the other. This ensures you're not redepositing bacteria.
Common Flossing Mistakes
Even regular flossers sometimes make these errors:
Sawing motion only: Moving floss back and forth without hugging the tooth surface misses plaque below the gum line.
Stopping at the first sign of bleeding: Some bleeding when you start flossing is normal and usually indicates inflammation. Continue flossing gently – bleeding typically stops within a week or two of consistent use.
Flossing too quickly: Rushing means missing areas. Take your time and be thorough.
Skipping teeth: Every contact point needs attention. Develop a systematic approach so you don't miss any.
When to Floss
The ideal time to floss is before brushing at night. Flossing first loosens debris, and brushing afterward helps sweep it away and delivers fluoride to freshly cleaned surfaces.
However, the most important thing is that you floss daily. If you prefer flossing in the morning or after lunch, that's fine too.
Making It a Habit
If flossing feels like a chore, try these tips:
- Keep floss visible near your toothbrush
- Floss while watching TV or in the shower
- Try different types until you find one you like
- Set a phone reminder until the habit sticks
We're Happy to Help
During your visits to Finch & Dudley Dental, ask us to demonstrate proper flossing technique. We can also recommend the best type of floss for your specific needs and dental work.
For personalized oral hygiene guidance and comprehensive dental care, visit Finch & Dudley Dental at Yonge and Finch in North York.