Flossing plays a pivotal role in overall dental health. It removes plaque and food particles and improves gum health. However, to reap all of the benefits of flossing, you need proper technique. The team at Four Corners Dental Group, a family dentistry practice with offices in Anchorage and Wasilla, AK, reveals what you should know to keep your teeth and gums healthy and happy.

The Right Way to Floss

To eliminate food particles and plaque from the nooks and crannies in your mouth that your toothbrush can’t quite reach, follow these four steps:

1. Start with 18 inches of clean floss. The type doesn’t matter—you can use waxed or unwaxed, flavored or unflavored.

2. Wind or pinch the ends between your fingers, leaving an inch to direct between your teeth.

3. Slide the floss up and down between your teeth, curving it around the base of each tooth and under the gum line.

4. Using clean sections of floss, repeat this action with each tooth.

Important Considerations

Your gums are sensitive, so be gentle while you floss. Resist the urge to snap or force the string as you floss; instead, simply pull the string taut and guide it between the teeth and under the gums. It’s okay to use handheld or electric flossers, particularly if they’re recommended by the professionals at your local family dentistry practice. Ask your dentist for tips to use the tools correctly.

With proper technique, flossing can take care of the particles your toothbrush missed during a regular brushing, so do it at least once per day. If you experience any discomfort, such as bleeding gums or sharp pains, reach out to a local family dentistry practice to diagnose the problem. Whether you need a pediatric dentist or affordable dental care, Four Corners Dental Group is here to help. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 258-3384 for Anchorage or (907) 376-2790 to reach their Wasilla office. Visit the family dentistry team online to learn more about their dental services.