How to Floss Properly

Proper oral hygiene is about more than a white smile. Floss is able to reach areas a toothbrush cannot, and flossing properly is necessary for overall oral health. Flossing regularly can help prevent gum disease, bad breath, tooth decay and more dental problems. Remember to floss daily by using these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Floss
• Mirror

1. Cut off a piece of floss about 18 inches in length.

2. Wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand. Leave a space of about 2 inches free and wind the remaining floss around the middle finger of the other hand.

3. Use your thumbs and forefingers to hold the floss. Keep it taunt and stand in front of a mirror. Use a gentle rubbing motion to slide the floss between your teeth.

4. Focus on one tooth and glide the floss towards the gum line to create a C shape. Go beneath the gum line and stop when resistance is felt.

5. Work the floss up and down to remove plague and pieces of food. Repeat Steps 1 to 5 to properly floss all teeth. Unwind more floss as the piece you're using becomes dirty.

6. Wind the dirty piece up onto the other middle finger and unravel a several inches of clean floss. Repeat Steps 1 to 5 to properly floss all teeth.

Tips & Warnings

• Waxed floss is made of Teflon and other materials that are easier to slide between teeth.
• If you have trouble flossing, your dentist can make other suggestions for oral health. Ask about using picks, sticks and other aids for properly cleaning between teeth.
• Flossing may cause soreness and bleeding gums. If this condition persists for more than a few days, see a dentist to rule out other conditions.

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