How to floss properly to avoid bleeding gums
Flossing is essential to oral health. It is the only way to remove plaque properly from around the gum line and between teeth. Many people avoid flossing because it’s time-consuming. Some people have tried flossing before and have been put off by their gums bleeding. However, not flossing can lead to plaque build-up around the gum line, which is what makes your gums more susceptible to bleeding in the first place.
The Golden Rules of Flossing
Flossing regularly is important. So is following these rules so you get a great clean every time.
- Floss daily, preferably in the evening
- Floss before you brush your teeth, not afterwards
- Mouthwash is not a replacement for flossing
- Use a new section of floss for each tooth
- Floss between each side of every single tooth, including your back teeth
5 Steps to Properly Flossed Teeth
- Cut a piece of floss equal to the distance from your hand to your elbow
- Wrap the piece of floss around the tips of your middle fingers. Use your thumb and index fingers to hold the floss in place, leaving a slight gap between them.
- Insert the floss between your teeth, being careful not to press too hard.
- Rub the floss gently up and down along the side of the tooth, and under the gum line.
- As you move the floss, wrap it around and behind the tooth.
Choosing the right floss for you
The best type of floss is the one you’ll use regularly. Each one has its pros and cons and is suitable for different people.
- Waxed floss is the most common type of floss found at pharmacies. For most people, this floss is comfortable to use.
- Unwaxed floss is thinner than regular floss and ideal for people with teeth that are close together, but shreds easily.
- Teflon based floss. These are made from a smooth material that easily slides between the teeth. This is ideal for people with sensitive gums.
- Dental tape is thicker and flatter than standard floss, which is why they’re preferred by people with larger spaces between their teeth.
Photographs used under license from https://www.authoritydental.org/
