Failing to maintain consistent oral hygiene practices can gradually increase your chances of suffering from periodontal disease. When bacterial deposits and sugar residue are left on your teeth it can cause tartar to build up near the gumline.
Brushing your teeth twice each day and flossing at least once is a critical first step for removing bacterial matter and food deposits from your mouth before they can develop into tartar, or promote tooth decay.
It’s important to note that there are some minor variations in dental floss. Finding the one that you and your family prefer will help keep you encouraged to floss each day.
The two most common types of dental floss include micro-braided nylon and extruded monofilament. Some brands include an added flavor and offer dental floss with a wax coating. None of these differences make one type of dental floss more effective than the other. Finding the one that you prefer will help keep you encouraged to floss each day.
The easiest and most effective way to floss your teeth starts by wrapping the excess strand around your middle fingers. Grip the strand firmly between your thumb and index fingers. You can then gently slide it between the teeth. Then, you should curve the strand of dental floss to maximize contact with the surfaces of the tooth. Try to make several small passes along the length of each tooth.
It’s also very important to thoroughly floss along the gumline as well as behind each of your rear molars. These areas are sometimes ignored, yet they can trap a significant amount of bacterial matter.
When you’re shopping for dental floss be sure to choose a brand that has earned the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance. This ensures that it has been tested and researched for safe and effective use in a daily oral hygiene routine.
If you live in the Smyrna, Georgia, area and you have oral hygiene questions you can call 770-438-1520 to speak to Dr. Vivian Hudson or a staff member at Hudson Dental Care.