How to Floss (And Do You Brush or Floss First?)

Flossing is one of the easiest ways to maintain your health.  The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice and flossing once each day.  Both are a part of your daily routine that you can do quickly and effectively.  Flossing and brushing only take a few minutes, yet they have serious beauty and health benefits.  Doing them daily will…

1. Remove plaque buildup that cause cavities, sensitivity, and yellowing

2. Clear away bacteria that cause bad breath (halitosis)

3. Prevent periodontal, gum, and heart disease

 

Photo Sources: Flickr, Flickr

Brush or Floss First?

You can do either.  According to the ADA, it doesn’t matter if you brush or floss first as long as you clean your teeth thoroughly.  But you may want to consider flossing first.  Flossing removes particles stuck between your teeth.  So flossing first allows toothpaste fluoride to work in those tight spots that are otherwise blocked off.

How to Floss: Loose Floss or Picks?

Plain dental floss allows you to easily maneuver in and out of the small gaps between each tooth.  If you have trouble reaching your molars and other teeth, consider an F-Shaped or Y-Shaped dental floss wand.  There are also ergonomic floss wands with adjustable heads that allows you to adjust your flossing angle.  Last, there are floss picks that are great for travel or to use after a meal when you are away from home.  Which tool you choose depends on your flossing style and where you are in your day.

Photo Sources: Wikipedia

How to Floss

It’s important to have a strategy when battling plaque and bacteria.  Your mouth is a war zone where naturally occurring bacteria clashes with your teeth.  Your teeth’s armor, enamel, will protect your teeth, but you must clean the armor before and after each day’s fight.

Follow these easy flossing steps by Oral-B:

1. Cut off about an 18-inch piece of floss.

2. Hold most of the floss in your dominant hand, wrap the floss around that hand’s middle or index finger.

3. Wrap the loose end of the floss around your other hand’s middle or index finger.

4. Slide the floss between teeth.  Form a “C” shape as you wrap the floss around each tooth.

5. Make sure to floss the front and back of each tooth as well as the sides.

6. Use a different section of the floss each time you move to another tooth.

Now you know which tools to enter the battle with and how to floss away the enemy.  It’s extremely important to brush and floss daily to maintain a bright and healthy smile.  Make sure you’re using the right toothbrush and choose a healthy toothpaste, too! If you have any concerns with your smile, please reach out to us to schedule a checkup.