The last time you visited your dentist, there’s a good chance you had a conversation about flossing with them or your dental hygienist. This is because flossing is responsible for removing plaque from hard-to-reach places that your toothbrush can’t get to. If this bacteria is not removed, it eventually turns into a substance called tartar, which causes tooth decay and can eventually lead to infection in the gums. Because it is so important, it’s just as crucial to make sure you’re doing it the right way. Keep reading to learn what your Cambria dentist has to share about how you may be flossing incorrectly without even knowing it.
Five Ways You May Be Flossing Incorrectly
You have probably heard the phrase, “it’s better than nothing” before. It might apply to many things in life, but flossing is not one of them. By flossing incorrectly, you could actually be harming your teeth more than helping them, and here are five ways you could be unknowingly doing that:
Not Flossing Enough
Flossing only helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease if you do it on a regular basis. According to studies, an alarming 28% of the population only floss when they feel the need to remove something stuck in their teeth or not at all! Most dentists will recommend flossing twice per day, and your dentist can give you specific guidance based on your unique oral needs.
Flossing and Brushing in the Wrong Order
If this is the first time you’re hearing that there is a proper order to flossing and brushing, you’re not alone! Although it may not be common knowledge, there is a definite benefit to flossing before you brush your teeth. The reason for this is because flossing helps to dislodge plaque and bacteria from between the teeth, which then makes it easier for your toothbrush to catch. Flossing after brushing can spread bacteria around that will then not be rinsed out properly.
Only Flossing Part of Your Teeth
It can be easy when you’re flossing (probably in a hurry) to only wedge the string down the middle of your teeth. This only removed plaque from between two teeth, so it’s important to rotate the floss string around the entire tooth in order to remove plaque from every angle. Floss sticks are a great alternative that can give you more leverage to help you floss around each tooth thoroughly if this is something you’ve struggled with.
Staying Above the Gumline
Your gums need to be cleaned just as much as your teeth do. They are the anchors that hold your teeth in place, so make sure you push the string all the way down to the line on your gums when flossing between your teeth. This will help remove harmful bacteria from your gums so that it doesn’t build up and cause disease.
Stopping if Your See Blood
This one is subjective, however, a small amount of blood coming from your gums from time to time when flossing is completely normal. Unless flossing is causing you pain, or you are seeing excessing amounts of red, you can rest assured that you have nothing to worry about. In fact, this signals the removal of bacteria that has built up on gum material, meaning your gums will repair themselves and stay healthier.
Next time you floss, take these tips into consideration so that you can be confident that your gums are getting the clean treatment they need!
About the Practice
The team of expert dentists at Cambria Smiles is passionate about educating each of their patients and providing them with the tools they need to have the healthiest smiles possible. Their years of experience and expertise allow them to provide superior care. They have built their practice on long-lasting relationships and trust. Are your teeth in the best shape they can be? Schedule an appointment online or call (805) 927-4811.