Watch and Learn: How to Floss Correctly

Did you remember to floss your teeth today? If you’re like many Americans, you may not have. And even if you did remember, do you know if you flossed effectively? Well, there’s an easy way to find out!

In our latest Watch and Learn from ABC.com, instead of just reading about how to floss correctly, you’ll be able to see a demonstration on proper flossing that will help you know for sure if you’re getting the most out of your oral care routine.

Some of the important information highlighted includes:

– Choose the right length of floss. You will need at least 18″ to floss effectively. – Do not force the floss between your teeth as you can damage your gums. – If you have tight spaces between your teeth, there are flosses specifically made for this issue that glide more easily. There are also options such as air flossers and WaterPiks that gently clean between teeth without the use of floss. – Start flossing from the molars toward the front of your mouth, using a “C” shape going away from the gumline. – Don’t use the same piece of floss on more than two teeth. Using extra floss is inexpensive and important. – Make sure you’re rinsing after flossing the first few teeth to wash away debris and check to see if gums are bleeding. If you have not flossed regularly, bleeding gums are unfortunately fairly common and an early warning sign of gingivitis.

If you have recently begun flossing again and are noticing bleeding or extreme tenderness, please give our Ann Arbor dental office a call today at 734-677-2156 or visit our website to make an appointment for a consultation.

–Dr. Shannon Norman-Kotre, Ann Arbor Dentist