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How to be a good flosser

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How to be a good flosser

Dental flossing is the act of removing food debris and deposits stuck between the teeth with a thin cord known as floss. Flossing can help to prevent gum disease. Your family dentists, Dr. Carol Cunningham and Dr. Daniel Jurgens at Gentle Art of Dentistry in Decatur, IL, can advise you on how to incorporate flossing into your oral hygiene routine. We also provide all advanced family dentistry services.

Why should I floss?

Brushing alone can't remove food debris and deposits from all the teeth. Flossing cleans those surfaces which your toothbrush can't reach. It is vital to clean the food debris to prevent plaque from accumulating because it will harden and become tartar with time. Plaque and tartar contain bacteria that cause cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. At Gentle Art of Dentistry in Decatur, IL, your family dentists recommend flossing at least once a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy and clean. You may experience some bleeding from the gums initially, but with daily use, it will stop. If there is severe bleeding, it could be a sign of gum disease for which you have to visit your dentist. Floss is available in different flavors and varieties, you can choose the one that suits your needs. Even if you have braces, it should not stop you from flossing your teeth regularly.

Method of flossing

Take about 18 inches of floss and wound it around the middle finger of each hand. Keep the floss between the thumb and forefingers, and gently move it up and down between the teeth. Don't insert the floss below the gumline. You need to floss between all the teeth including those in the back.

For more information, book an appointment with our family dentists, Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Jurgens at Gentle Art of Dentistry in Decatur, IL, by calling (217) 422-7448 today.