How to Floss Your Teeth

To help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, it is essential to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline on a daily basis. By taking a few minutes to gently floss once a day, children and adults can significantly reduce their risk of dental disease.

At routine checkup visits, the dentist or dental hygienist can demonstrate the proper technique for flossing. There are several varieties of dental floss available, and all are effective at removing plaque and food particles. According to the Journal of Periodontology, selecting a type of dental floss is often a matter of personal preference. However, in specific cases, certain types may be more effective:

Proper flossing technique involves using about 18 inches of floss from a roll or dispenser. Wrap the floss around the index fingers of both hands, leaving a few inches between them. Hold the floss between your index finger and thumb, and gently glide it between the teeth and down to the gumline. Hug the floss against one tooth in a "C" shape and move it up and down to remove plaque and debris. Repeat for the adjacent tooth and continue around the mouth, including behind the last tooth, using clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

Regular flossing, combined with proper brushing, forms the foundation of excellent oral hygiene and helps maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.