A major part of improving your oral health includes improving your everyday habits, including brushing and flossing. Small investments, such as brushing for two minutes, twice a day, and flossing once a day, are the foundation of a healthy smile.
Let’s talk flossing. Even though flossing is a relatively easy skill, there are new products and methods as dentists discover better ways to ensure that your teeth are thoroughly cleaned.
When flossing, the first thing you want to make sure you are doing is to check that you are using proper technique. Always use a thread that is roughly 18 inches long. This allows you to clean each tooth with a clean section of thread, avoiding cross-contamination of the teeth. Wrap each end of the strand around a finger on each hand so you can move the thread up and down as necessary.
If your floss tears when you use it, upgrade to a stronger product. Single filament thread is shred resistant and should be used if possible. Always check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance on any interdental cleaning products that you use.
If you are older or lack the muscle strength or bone fitness to properly floss every day using conventional method, there is still hope for a healthy smile. Try using an alternative product such as a water flosser! Water flossers are interdental cleaners that easily clean your mouth by shooting beams of water to wash harmful debris away.
Conroe Dental Associates looks forward to meeting you and admiring your cleaning techniques! To schedule an oral examination with Dr. Gina Khong and our team at our dentist office in Conroe, Texas, please contact us at your earliest convenience at 936-756-9884. It’s never too late to start taking steps to a healthier you.
