Understanding proper flossing techniques for improved preventative dentistry habits
Calgary, Alberta, area patients curious about proper flossing techniques will want to connect with our dentists at Calgary Dental Centers. Our two locations allow patients to speak with a dentist and team who can educate them on caring for their smile with good at-home dental habits.
Why is flossing teeth important?
Many patients visiting our team at Calgary Dental Centers have questions about home dental care, including flossing. While brushing removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth, what does flossing do?
Flossing is essential to good oral health and wellness because it helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. This helps prevent gum disease, bad breath, and cavities that can lead to expensive dental procedures later on.
It is vital that you floss at least once a day, preferably after meals or just before bedtime. If you are new to flossing, our team would be happy to offer assistance in selecting the proper size of floss for your mouth and help teach proper flossing techniques. For those with hard-to-reach areas in their mouths or special needs such as braces, interdental brushes may be an alternative for cleaning between the teeth instead of traditional floss.
What are some tips for effective flossing?
Our dentists at Calgary Dental Centers may recommend the following steps and tips to make flossing easy and effective:
- Use dental floss that is about 18 inches long and wrap it around the middle fingers. From the gum line, gently move the floss up and down between each tooth
- Do not snap the floss against the gums. Be gentle as you work it between your teeth
- Curve the dental floss into a “C” shape around the individual tooth to acquire any food particles or plaque that may have been collected there
- When you are done, rinse with mouthwash or water to get rid of any remaining debris
Our experienced dentists at Calgary Dental Centers are here to help answer any dental questions you may have about proper flossing, as well as make recommendations for the types of flosses available, tools to help you floss around bridges, dentures, or braces, and even help you decide if a water flosser would be appropriate for your unique dental needs. There are many ways to floss to achieve and maintain oral health and wellness, and our team is here to assist!
Schedule a visit with our providers to discuss your flossing needs!
Flossing is one of the most critical steps toward achieving optimum oral health and should be done daily for optimal results. If you are looking into other preventative dentistry solutions, our team at Calgary Dental Centers can educate you on caring for your smile.
Call Calgary’s Dental Care at (403) 768-1339 or 17th Avenue Dental Center at (403) 768-1343 to learn more about your options for keeping the teeth and gums clean and free from disease and decay!
