Although brushing twice daily is an important part of maintaining your oral hygiene, it only cleans 60% of the teeth. A brush can only reach three of a tooth’s sides—the front, back, and top. Floss, on the other hand, can target hard-to-reach places, including the sides that are adjacent to the surrounding teeth. Here, Dr. Richard A. Brunmeier, DDS explains why flossing daily is so important and shares the proper steps.

Why Flossing Is Essential

Flossing between the teeth removes plaque that your toothbrush cannot reach, and doing so every day prevents this plaque from hardening into tartar. If tartar accumulates between the teeth, it can irritate the gums, causing inflammation. This can eventually lead to periodontal disease. Flossing protects the gums, making it a critical component of any good oral hygiene routine.

How to Floss Properly 

To floss properly, you need approximately 18 inches of floss. Wrap the ends around both middle fingers until you have roughly two inches to work with. Holding it taut, insert the floss between two teeth, and slide it up and down gently. Then, guide it around the base of each tooth just beneath the gum line. Unwind to a clean section of floss, and repeat between the next two teeth until you have flossed your entire mouth. If some of the spaces between your teeth are especially tight, opt for single filament floss instead of nylon because it will not shred. 

Although flossing properly will help you maintain a beautiful smile, even those with perfect oral hygiene habits should visit a dentist periodically. Everyone needs a professional teeth cleaning and comprehensive oral exam on occasion. If you’re overdue for dental care, turn to Dr. Richard A. Brunmeier, DDS in Lincoln, NE. Serving patients throughout Lancaster County, this practice provides comprehensive care in a warm and relaxing environment. Visit their website to learn more, or call (402) 484-6644 to make an appointment today.