Flossing isn’t just something to do when you have something stuck between your teeth—it should be done every day to keep gingivitis and cavity-causing bacteria out of your mouth. But while it’s easy to understand why this oral hygiene act is important, it can take a little practice to do it right. Focused on protecting the smiles of Kahului, HI, the Implant Center of Maui highlights simple steps to fine-tune the way you floss.

5 Steps to Flossing Your Way Toward Better Oral Hygiene

1. Wrap Floss Around Fingers   

To make sure you have the best control over dental floss, you’ll want to make sure it’s positioning around your fingers properly. Start by pulling out about 18” of material and wrapping each end around your forefingers. As you navigate the strand, use your thumbs and forefingers to manipulate it up and down.

2.  Slide Vertically

With the floss held tight between your fingers, slide the floss in between the teeth and move it up and down in a gentle motion. This will help free bacteria and food that may be stuck in the tight spaces.

3. Get Under the Gumline   

As you make your way down each tooth, you’ll want to curve the floss around the base of the tooth so that it can clean under the gumline. Refrain from using a lot of force, as sensitive gums may bleed or become irritated if aggravated too much.

4. Adjust for Every Tooth      

To prevent bacteria and debris from spreading, it’s best to use a clean section of floss for every tooth. Repeat the above motions for every tooth, making sure to get between each molar in the back. If you have a tough time reaching, consider investing in an extender device.

5. Rinse

Once you’ve flossed around every tooth, rinse with water or mouthwash. This will help remove any bacteria or food particles that you dislodged during the process.

With practice every day, flossing will eventually become second nature. However, it’s a good idea to always consult with a dentist to make sure your method is correct. If you’re curious about your oral hygiene practice, the Implant Center of Maui can review your technique and offer suggestions on how to improve. This Kahului, HI, preventive dentistry provider can also make sure you’re choosing the right type of dental floss for your teeth. You can learn more about these services online or call (808) 877-3606 to schedule a dental cleaning and checkup on your habits.