Flossing


Flossing daily removes plaque and other debris that brushing alone does not reach. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chances of keeping your teeth for a lifetime and reduce your risk of developing gum problems. It can even help you get rid of bad breath. The benefits of flossing are almost endless, really, and anyone who isn't flossing is missing out.

Types of floss
There are two types of floss from which to choose:
·      Nylon (or multifilament) floss
·      PTFE (monofilament) floss
Nylon floss is available waxed and unwaxed, and in a variety of flavors. Because this type of floss is composed of many strands of nylon, it may sometimes tear or shred, especially between teeth with tight contact points. While more expensive, single filament (PTFE) floss slides easily between teeth, even those with tight spaces between teeth, and is virtually shred-resistant. When used properly, both types of floss are excellent at removing plaque and debris.

Steps to floss
Use this step-by-step guide to find out how to properly floss your teeth:
·   Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.

·      Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.

·      Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.

·      When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.

·  Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth. Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.
Once you’re finished, throw the floss away. A used piece of floss won’t be as effective and could leave bacteria behind in your mouth.


Benefits of Flossing
Flossing is a vital part of your dental care regime and if you're one of those people who find it tough to remember flossing, then it's high time you make it a habit. Flossing is essential as in the long run it helps fight a lot of oral problems. Here are some indisputable benefits of flossing:
·       Flossing prevents Halitosis- a symptom in which the breath releases a noticeably bad odour.
·       Flossing keeps the gums healthy. It wards off gum diseases and gingivitis by eliminating the culprit- bacteria that cling around the roots of the teeth and irritate the gums.
·       Flossing can assist fluoride from the toothpaste to reach between your teeth easily.
·       Plaque can build up in arteries & block blood flow. Flossing aids in releasing plaque from the teeth, hence it has been suggested that it plays a significant role in decreasing chances of heart disease.

Floss your teeth at least once every day. Dentists suggest flossing for two to three minutes, but even 60 seconds of flossing daily can significantly improve your gum health. Most people floss before bed. If you know you've had a meal that led you to have more food stuck in your teeth than usual, then you can floss earlier too, to get out the stray particles of food. That being said, you don't want to overdo the flossing, either, or you may damage your gums. Just once a day should be the perfect amount.


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