Did you know that brushing alone isn’t enough? Even with diligent brushing and rinsing, tiny gaps remain between teeth. How can you achieve thorough cleaning? The answer is flossing! Berry Dent explains the importance of daily flossing and the proper technique for healthy, cavity-free teeth and gums.
Flossing: More Important Than You Think!
Many overlook flossing, believing brushing suffices. However, flossing is crucial for oral health, cleaning between teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach. Trapped food particles and plaque harbor bacteria, leading to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Why Floss Daily?
Daily flossing is like cleaning your house; sweeping and mopping remove dust and dirt. Similarly, flossing removes food debris and plaque from between teeth, preventing bacterial buildup and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Daily flossing is vital for long-term oral health.
How to Floss Correctly
Proper flossing maximizes cleaning efficiency and prevents gum injury:
- Cut an 18-inch piece of floss and wind most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a 1-2-inch section for flossing.
- Gently guide the floss between your teeth using your thumb and index finger. Avoid snapping the floss against your gums.
- Curve the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape and slide it up and down against the tooth surface, cleaning from the tooth’s base to the gum line.
- Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to prevent the spreading of bacteria.
- Rinse with water after flossing to remove dislodged food particles and plaque.
Types of Dental Floss
Types of floss cater to individual preferences:
- String Floss: The most common type, available waxed or unwaxed.
- Dental Tape: Flat and wide, ideal for wider gaps between teeth.
- Floss Picks: Convenient for beginners or those with dexterity issues.
Combining daily flossing with proper brushing using a toothpaste like Berry Dent hybrid herbal toothpaste, which contains plaque-fighting ingredients and cavity-preventing fluoride, and regular dental checkups every six months promotes optimal oral health and protect against cavities and gum disease.