How Often Do You Floss Your Teeth?

Your dentist and dental team at Library Park Dental asks you about your flossing habits because it is an important way to improve your oral health.

Why is it so important? Flossing properly helps to remove bits of food and a bacterial film called plaque between the teeth and under the gum line that your toothbrush can’t reach. That plaque must be removed before it develops into tartar, which must be scraped away.

Removing the plaque helps to prevent gingivitis (red, puffy, and inflamed gums), toothaches, tooth decay, and tooth loss.

So How Should You Floss?

Take about 12 inches of floss and wrap the ends around your fingers for better control. Slide the floss gently between your teeth and draw the floss toward the gum line. Curve the floss around each tooth and pull up and down to remove the plaque. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to kill any bacteria that are left on your teeth. Then brush your teeth by using a toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Your dentist and dental team at Library Park Dental wants your oral health to be optimal and you have an important role! Flossing your teeth is a great way to improve your oral health.