Flossing is an essential part of looking after you oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth combined with regular dental assessments is your best defence against fighting plaque and gum disease. Contrary to popular belief, brushing alone will not prevent tooth decay; so without flossing, you’re leaving as much as half of the plaque on your teeth behind. That’s why it’s important to floss at least once a day.

So what is the best way to floss?

• Starting with about 40cm of floss, wind most of the floss around each middle finger, leaving 3-4 cm of floss to work with
• Holding the floss tautly between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up-and-down between your teeth
• Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gum line. Never snap or force the floss, as this may cut or bruise delicate gum tissue
• Use clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth
• To remove the floss, use the same back-and-forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth
• It’s a good idea to rinse your mouth out after with mouth wash, this can help expel any tiny particles you have dislodged whilst flossing

If you find it hard to use a string of floss there are some other options listed below

• Reach make a flosser with a handle like a tooth brush.  It comes with disposable heads and does an excellent job

• TePe make inter-dental brushes which again you use like a mini tooth brush between the teeth.

The health of your mouth plays a large role in your overhealth and well being.  To do your best to brush twice a day and floss at least once  a day, if you team that with regular visits to the dentist then you are giving yourself the best chance at health and long lasting teeth
and gums.

To book an appointment don’t hesitate to give us a call on 9225 6564 or you can book online at www.MendelsohnDental.com.au