Are You Flossing The Right Way?

If there is a dental hygiene practice that is commonly overlooked, forgotten, or simply ignored...it is flossing.  

It is easy to believe that good brushing covers all of the bases, and that as long as you are brushing at least twice a day your teeth will be in tip top shape.

Unfortunately, that is just not true.

Yes, brushing takes care of the majority of the cleaning.  But there are still areas, like where the teeth touch of the gum line in between, that a toothbrush simply cannot reach.

Bacteria that is left behind due to a lack of flossing leaves one in great danger of developing gum disease and decay.  And when the bacteria mixes with saliva and food remaining between the teeth, it turns into plaque, a clear, sticky film that "glues" itself to your teeth.

All of that ickiness is completely preventable...by flossing!

If you are the type who doesn't want to tackle flossing because it seems complicated, we here at Montgomery Dentistry would love to empower you with some flossing know-how!

Flossing may seem a little tricky, but trust us, there is nothing to it.  Just follow these simple steps!

1) Wrap the floss around your middle finger, leaving your thumb and forefinger free to move the floss.

2) Push the floss between two teeth and use a sawing motion until the floss pops down though the contact point (where the two teeth touch).

3) Wrap the floss around one tooth, making a C shape, and gently move the floss up and down.  Do this several times.  And make sure to go slightly past the gumline.

4) Repeat with the other tooth.  Pull out floss, rotate the floss to a  clean spot, and keep going! 

If you have not already been flossing regularly, you will probably notice some bleeding.  Don't worry!  This bleeding is actually caused from a bacteria build-up in your gums.  Over time, as you continue to floss regularly, you will notice that the bleeding subsides.

If you have slightly larger gaps between your teeth, there is a super-size floss that you can purchase.  And always remember that when purchasing floss, you want a good quality floss that is coated with wax.  This will greatly enhance the floss's ability to slide between teeth.

As you take care of your teeth at home, don't forget that another very important aspect of your dental health is maintaining regular check-ups!  If it is time for you to come see us, please call and set up an appointment.  You are also free to call us anytime if you simply have some questions you would like answered.  We would love to hear from you here at Montgomery Dentistry!