caring for your smile

flossing

The use of dental floss is essential in minimizing gum disease and other oral health problems resulting from the build-up of dental plaque. There are certain areas in the mouth the toothbrush cannot reach, particularly between teeth and under the gums. The use of dental floss at least once a day is essential in the effective removal of dental plaque in these areas.

1. Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
2. Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
3. Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

Flossing can also be instrumental in improving your overall health – as it eliminates a way for harmful bacteria to enter your bloodstream. This can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and even low birth weight babies.