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How to Floss | NHS
Introduction to Flossing
Flossing is a crucial part of oral hygiene that helps remove plaque and food particles from areas between your teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach. The NHS recommends incorporating flossing into your daily routine to maintain healthy gums and prevent tooth decay. This guide provides detailed steps on how to floss correctly to ensure you get the most out of this practice.Choosing the Right Floss
There are various types of floss available in the market, including waxed and unwaxed, flavoured and unflavoured, and various thicknesses. It is essential to choose the type of floss that best suits your dental health needs. For those with tightly spaced teeth, a thinner, waxed floss may be easier to use. Patients with braces or dental bridges may prefer a specialized floss threader.Proper Flossing Technique
1. **Take About 18 Inches of Floss:** Break off around 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the other hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty. 2. **Grip and Position the Floss:** Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, leaving about an inch of floss to work with. Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. 3. **Curve the Floss:** When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Slide it gently into the space between the gum and the tooth. 4. **Cleaning Both Sides:** Hold the floss tightly against the tooth, gently rubbing the side of the tooth, moving away from the gum with up and down motions. Repeat this process on the rest of your teeth. 5. **Use a Fresh Section of Floss:** As you move from tooth to tooth, use a clean section of floss.Flossing Tips and Best Practices
- **Be Gentle:** Avoid snapping the floss into your gums, which can cause injury or bleeding. - **Don’t Skip:** Make sure to floss all your teeth, including the back molars where food particles are more likely to get trapped. - **Consistency is Key:** Floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime to remove any food debris accumulated throughout the day. - **Consult Your Dentist:** If you experience difficulty or discomfort while flossing, consult your dentist for personalized advice.Why Flossing is Important
Flossing plays a vital role in preventing periodontal disease and tooth decay by removing plaque that harbors harmful bacteria. It also helps reduce bad breath and promotes healthier gums. Building a habit of regular flossing, alongside brushing twice a day and regular dental check-ups, ensures comprehensive oral health and can save you from potential dental problems in the future. Remember, while flossing is essential, it does not replace the need for routine dental visits. Regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist are crucial for maintaining a healthy mouth.Frequently Asked Questions
Why is flossing important?
Flossing is important because it helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line, areas where a toothbrush can't easily reach. This can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
How often should I floss?
You should floss at least once a day. It doesn’t matter what time of day you floss, as long as you’re consistent.
Is flossing necessary if I brush my teeth twice a day?
Yes, flossing is necessary even if you brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, but flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line.
Can flossing damage my gums?
Flossing can cause minor irritation initially, especially if you are new to it. However, if done correctly and gently, it should not damage your gums.
What is the best type of floss to use?
There are various types of floss available, including waxed, unwaxed, flavoured, and dental tape. The best type to use is the one that you find most comfortable and effective for your needs.
How do I properly floss my teeth?
To properly floss your teeth, use a piece of floss about 18 inches long. Wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches to work with. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curve it around each tooth in a C shape, and move it up and down against the sides of each tooth.
What if my gums bleed when I floss?
Some bleeding is common when you first start flossing and should stop as your gums become healthier. However, if the bleeding persists after a few days or is excessive, it's best to consult with a dentist.
Can I use a water flosser instead of string floss?
Yes, water flossers can be an effective alternative, especially for people who find traditional floss difficult to use or have braces. However, it's best to consult with your dentist to ensure it's suitable for your dental health.
Is there a specific age to start flossing?
Parents should start flossing their children's teeth as soon as they have two teeth that touch. As children grow older, they can start to floss on their own under supervision until they can do it effectively by themselves.
Can I floss with braces?
Yes, you can and should floss with braces. Special orthodontic flossers or threaders can make it easier to clean around braces and wires.
Can flossing help with bad breath?
Yes, flossing can help with bad breath by removing food particles and bacteria from between your teeth that can cause odour.
How long should it take to floss my teeth?
Flossing all your teeth properly should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Is it normal for floss to shred or break?
Floss may shred or break if it catches on a rough edge or tight space between your teeth. If this happens frequently, it might be worth speaking with your dentist, as it could indicate a dental issue.
Can I reuse a piece of floss?
No, you should use a fresh piece of floss each time you floss your teeth to avoid reintroducing bacteria into your mouth.
What should I do if I have difficulty flossing my molars?
If you have difficulty flossing your molars, you can try using a floss holder or an interdental brush to reach the back of your mouth more easily.
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