Flossing 101

Of all the things you can do to maintain a healthy mouth, flossing has got to be the least expensive! But many patients don’t take the time to floss. And if you do, you might not be doing it correctly! Welcome to Flossing 101…

Why should you floss?

Your toothbrush isn’t enough to brush away the plaque that can build up between teeth and under the gumline. A complete dental routine includes both flossing first then brushing right after every meal is ideal.

How often should you floss?

Flossing first then brushing right after every meal is ideal. The least you can do to NOT FEED the bacteria making caivities is to floss every night before going to bed.

Using a waxed string of floss as demonstrated on our video which a resistant feeling from the gum then hugging the side of each tooth, going up and down a few times to clean and gum and teeth surfaces.

Waxed floss helps us clean under the gum and teeth that the toothbrush can not reach.

Should you floss before or after brushing?

Floss before brush, please.

How should you floss?

Pull out about 18 inches of floss (any brand is fine). Wind the floss tightly around your index or middle fingers on both hands so that the floss between your hands is taut. Slide the floss between each set of teeth that touch, as well as where your last molar meets your gums. Slide the floss up and down the teeth, following the natural curve of each tooth in a “C” shape. Imagine the floss giving each tooth a little hug! Floss between teeth and where your teeth meet your gums. Use a new clean section of floss for each set of teeth.

For a helpful infographic, use this one How to Floss Flyer from the American Dental Association. You can also ask Dr. ChauLong Nguyen to show you how to floss at your next visit.