Your oral hygiene routine is crucial to removing plaque build-up from your smile and preventing it from hurting your teeth. For the best clean, you visit your dentist for routine cleanings, brush your teeth twice per day, and floss daily.
When it comes to flossing, many dental patients are not sure what the best methods are in order to get rid of plaque between teeth effectively. Dr. Dominic Roppa, a dentist located in Rockledge, FL, offers tips for flossing that will keep your teeth clean and healthy.
Hold Floss Correctly
Getting your teeth effectively clean through flossing begins with holding it in a way that allows you to maneuver the string with ease and precision. You should use approximately 18 inches of floss and wrap each end around the middle finger of each hand.
This will allow you to grip the floss between the index finger and thumb of both hands, with about one inch of floss available to use between your teeth. As you clean each tooth, you can slide the string around your middle fingers to reveal a clean section of floss when the previous bit is used.
Position and Move Floss with Purpose
When you have a secure hold on your floss, you can gently insert the floss between your teeth. Then you should press the floss against the tooth and rub it up and down to remove trapped food particles and plaque build-up.
You should do this for each side of every tooth on both the top and bottom arches of your mouth. Floss carefully to avoid irritating your gums. While acute bleeding may occur due to harsh flossing techniques, you should ask your dentist for a gum disease screening if the issue becomes chronic.
Consider Alternative Flossing Tools
Dental professionals agree that traditional flossing methods are effective ways to maintain good oral hygiene practices. However, individuals with unique oral appliances or dental conditions may want to look into alternative flossing tools.
For instance, orthodontic patients with braces may appreciate the flexibility of floss picks, or strings of floss attached to a plastic handle. People with dental implants or other fixtures may benefit from a water pick, in which an irrigator generates a concentrated stream of water to clean your teeth.
Flossing and More Tips from Your Dentist in Rockledge, FL
Smile Viera offers dental cleanings and other preventative dental care for patients of all ages. Dr. Roppa is a highly qualified dentist in Rockledge, FL, specializing in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including tooth replacement solutions. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 321.614.3833.