When is the best time to floss?
Many people floss at night, right before they go to bed. That way, they go to sleep with a clean mouth. However, as long as you floss your teeth at least once a day, it does not matter what time you do it.
What can I use to floss?
There are many options when it comes to flossing, like dental floss, dental picks, pre-threaded flossers, small brushes that successfully clean between teeth, water flossers, wooden plaque removers, etc. But, when it comes to the floss itself, there are usually two options: nylon and PTFE floss. Nylon floss can be found waxed or unwaxed and it is generally available in a variety of flavors. PTFE is a more expensive type of floss but it is durable and it slides easily between your teeth without shredding.
How do I floss?
As you get ready to floss, use about 18 inches of your preferred product and wrap each end around each pointer finger, leaving about 2 inches between each finger. Now, use your thumbs and index fingers to gently slide the floss between two teeth. Move the floss up and down and slide it against the sides of your teeth, removing any excess food particles that may be stuck. Then, gently curve the floss against the base of each tooth and move it back and forth, eliminating the plaque that resides there. As you do so, make sure you go beneath the gumline. It is important that you go beneath and around the gums in a gentle but efficient way. Repeat this process between each tooth and remember to use a new section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.
Why is flossing important?
Flossing is very important because it helps deeply clean your smile and it removes the plaque from your teeth, which essentially saves your smile from gum disease and tooth loss.