When you think of home tooth care, do you think first of two things: a toothbrush and toothpaste? Without a doubt these are star players in every oral hygiene routine. Along with regular dental checkups and cleanings, you have another strong ally in keeping your gums healthy and your smile bright: dental floss. It might look like just a piece of string, but it can perform powerful feats related to maintaining gum health, fresh breath and a vibrant smile. If your floss could talk, it would want you to know how to get the most from using it.
Don’t Cut Me Short
Most dentists recommend pulling off about 12 inches of floss for each use. Wind the excess around one finger of each hand, leaving 2-3 inches of floss in the center. Gradually moving to a new, clean area as you gently work the floss around and between each tooth. Ease the floss between adjoining teeth, behind the back teeth, and gently under the gums where the gums meet the teeth.
Use Me Every Day
Precisely when to floss is a personal choice, but flossing once a day is recommended to maintain oral health, for most people. If you have had signs or gingivitis or periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend a different flossing schedule. There is nothing wrong with flossing more than once a day, or keeping floss picks or other travel floss items for quick touchups, or to remove bits of food that become trapped between teeth at any time of the day.
Flossing Shouldn’t Cause Bleeding
If you notice bleeding after you floss, on more than a rare occasion, check in with your dentist. Healthy gums are pink and firm, and adhere tightly around each tooth. If daily flossing results in bleeding, you may be flossing too vigorously. It’s also possible that bacteria or food particles have crept under your gums and caused inflammation or infection that needs to be addressed in the dental office.
Dental Floss is Important to Dental Health!
Dental floss is a small but mighty weapon, and one that you can use at home, to help maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Learn more by scheduling a visit in Prairie Village, KS by calling Robert M Browne, DDS at (913) 901-8585.
