BASIC FLOSSING

An essential part of your routine, flossing removes plaque from between the teeth, areas where gum disease can begin. It can sometimes feel a little awkward to floss, talk to your dentist and follow the tips below to help you feel more comfortable in maintaining your oral health.

1. Wind roughly 18" of floss around middle fingers of each hand. Hold each end of the floss between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving about 1" to 2" of length in between. You should use your thumbs to direct the floss between your upper teeth.

2. Keeping the 1" to 2" length of floss nice and firm between fingers, use index fingers to direct the floss between the lower teeth.

3. Gently guide the floss between the teeth by using a zigzag motion. It is important to remember not snap the floss between your teeth but using a smooth and flowing motion around each side of the tooth.

4. Slide the floss up and down against your tooth surface and under the gum. This may feel awkward but it is important to get underneath the tooth to clean those areas. A separate piece of floss should be used for each tooth to clean them thoroughly.
Wouldn't you prefer to prevent these problems instead of treating them?

Creating a simple daily hygiene routine can mean less visits to the dentist, little or no dental health issues and a bright, healthy smile full of your own teeth for life.

Save your money for the finer things in life, brush and floss twice a day and make sure you visit your dentist regularly.