The Proper Flossing Technique

Posted January 29, 2018.

If you are a little unsure of how to use floss, we will go through a step-by-step process to help get you to floss more effectively. It is best if you floss about once a day before you go to bed for the night. Of course, this does not mean that you have to floss right before bedtime, as you can do it whenever you find the time. The important thing is to try to do it daily.

When it comes time to floss, using about 18 inches of floss will be enough. Wrap about ⅓ of an inch around each of your pointer fingers. Pinch the ends of the remaining string between your pointer fingers and thumbs to hold it in place. When you get the floss between your teeth, pull it against one tooth, sort of like it is trying to wrap its arms across your tooth. Slide the floss up and down along the tooth.

There is a small gap between your gum and the side of your tooth, which the floss can slide between. This will mean putting the floss past the gum line a bit, but there should be no discomfort if you do so gently, and it will pick out anything you might otherwise miss. When you are done with one tooth, switch the floss to the other side of the gap, and repeat the same process. We recommend using a different area of the string when you move to a different side of any tooth for the best cleaning results.

When finish flossing all of your teeth, throw away the string you used. This way you can keep your teeth as clean as possible. If you have any questions or concerns regarding flossing or anything about your oral health, please come visit us at Sachs Family Dental in Orem, Utah. Our dentist, Dr. Steven Sachs, is ready to help you in any way. If you would rather call, our number is 801-225-4701.