Want Less Dental Work? Use These Flossing Tips From a Dentist

If you asked dentists to name the habit their patients struggle with the most, chances are that most of them would say flossing. Whether it’s trying to do it the right way or simply trying to do it all, there are several flossing tips and tricks that can make it easier. And the payoff is well worth it! You’ll have fewer cavities, healthier gums and fresher breath. Not to mention better checkups each time you see a dentist. So keep reading to learn how to make flossing more convenient and what technique to use. With this information, you’ll be on your way to a healthier smile in no time!

Flossing Tips To Make It More Convenient

When it comes to changing your habits, setting small, attainable goals is always a good strategy. If you currently don’t floss at all, aim to do it just 3 to 4 times a week at first. Once you’ve done that for a while, it will be easier to start flossing every day.

Or, some people have success with flossing right after dinner when they have more energy (instead of bedtime). You could also try flossing your bottom teeth in the morning and your top teeth at night. Anything that makes it easier will make a big difference, so experiment to find what works best for you.

Flossing Tips For Better Technique

If you’re already flossing but feel like your teeth and gums aren’t as healthy as you’d like, you may benefit from improving your technique. Use the following tips and remember that you can always ask a dentist or hygienist for a demonstration at your next checkup:

• Wrap a couple of inches of floss (from a piece about 18 inches long) around the index finger on your non-dominant hand. That will leave quite a bit hanging freely.
• Then, using the thumbs and index fingers of both hands, only work with a small piece at a time (about an inch or two).
• Use a back-and-forth, or seesaw motion, only to get the floss past the contact point where the teeth touch. This helps you avoid “snapping” the floss and hurting the gum tissue. Then, after you’re past the contact point, you’ll stop using the back-and-forth motion and use an up-and-down motion instead.
• Wrap the floss around the tooth (it will make a C shape), and gently move it up and down under the gumline.
• Don’t forget to move to a clean piece of the floss as you continue along. This is important to avoid transferring cavity-causing bacteria to other teeth.

Investing effort into improving your flossing will pay off big time. You’ll not only have a healthier smile but spend less time in the dental chair as well.

About the Author

Dr. Steven Stec is a family dentist with over 35 years of experience. He’s seen firsthand how regular flossing prevents the need for major dental work, and he and his staff are always happy to demonstrate the best technique for their patients. If you’d like to know more about your oral hygiene or have any questions, he can be reached through his website.