While brushing is essential for excellent oral hygiene, dentists want their patients to remember to keep up with their flossing routine. Failing to floss properly and regularly can lead to dental health problems, including tooth decay and gum disease. Learn more below about the flossing pitfalls to avoid so you can keep your smile bright and healthy. 

Dentist’s Top Flossing Blunders 

1. Flossing Too Little 

If you floss less than once per day, you are at risk of bacteria and plaque building up around your gums and teeth. Patients who have trouble remembering to floss should do it at the same time they brush. The best time to floss is in the evening before bed. Getting into the habit at night will remove the particles and germs from a day of eating and drinking. 

2. Working Too Quickly 

Many patients floss in a hurry, which dentists advise is not effective. Since you have 28 adult teeth, it should take about 2 minutes to clean your entire mouth. Set a timer to help you slow down and reach each tooth. 

3. Injuring Your Gums 

Some people don’t like flossing because it hurts or causes bleeding. Many of these gum injuries are the result of poor technique. Never wind your floss too tightly or pull the thread quickly away from the gums. Instead, keep the string more relaxed while gently pulling it down to the base of the gums, then up again. 

4. Skimping on Thread 

Do not use a short piece of floss for all of your teeth. A small amount of filament will cause the same bacteria and food particles to travel to other parts of your mouth. Every patient should use about 18 inches of thread for each session. Hold 1 to 2 inches between your fingers at a time, then use a new piece for each section of your gums. 

5. Practicing Improper Technique 

It is essential to floss correctly to keep your gums clean. If you’ve never learned the right technique, follow these instructions. Place a 1- to 2-inch piece of thread between your fingers and then skim between each tooth with a side to side motion. Next, wrap the floss around your tooth in a “C” shape to reach each side. Pull back up gently, then unroll a fresh piece of the filament with the help of your thumb. 

Excellent dental hygiene starts at home and continues at the dentist’s office. Four Corners Dental Group provides affordable dental care to the community so they can enjoy oral health for a lifetime. To make an appointment to see a friendly and skilled dentist, call their office in Anchorage at (907) 258-3384, or their second location in Wasilla, AK, at (907) 376-2790. For information about their family dentistry services, including preventative and restorative care, visit their website. Discover helpful oral care tips for the entire family by following them on Facebook.