Do you floss?" is a common question from your dentist during check-ups. While brushing twice daily is a habit for many, flossing is often overlooked. However, flossing is essential for thorough oral hygiene, as neglecting it leaves over a third of your tooth's surface unclean. To make flossing easier and ensure it becomes a part of your daily routine, we have some practical tips for you.

Be Generous When Flossing

The floss should be sufficiently long. Using a short piece can be tricky as it might slip from your fingers. It's essential to use a fresh section of floss for each tooth. To floss properly, hold the floss between your thumbs and forefingers and gently glide it between your teeth. Move it back and forth to prevent touching the gums.

Floss After Eating & Drink When Eating

Certainly, these steps might seem like a bit of trouble, but trust me, removing a bit of debris is far simpler than dealing with it all day. Just a minute or two of flossing after meals can significantly reduce bacterial growth in your teeth. When it comes to drinking, it helps to rinse away food particles without introducing additional sugar or bacteria to your mouth.

Be As Gentle As You Can

Ensure you allocate sufficient time for flossing your teeth. This task requires a steady and slow approach. Applying too much force can cause discomfort and gum bleeding, and may even wear down your tooth enamel. Therefore, gently and carefully address the rough spots to achieve the best flossing results.

Set a Reminder

If flossing isn't a part of your daily routine, it can be easy to forget. Setting a reminder on your phone could help. Another strategy is to pair flossing with another daily activity, such as showering or brushing your teeth, to ensure it becomes a habit.

Reward Yourself When You're Done!

Rewarding yourself doesn't have to be a grand gesture. Motivate yourself to floss by treating yourself to something enjoyable. For instance, if you love listening to music, do it right after flossing. Or if you enjoy walking your dog, make it a reward for flossing first. Over time, this activity will become a healthy habit rather than a chore.

In the End?

Flossing stands out as the most effective method to keep dental diseases at bay. By removing food particles trapped between teeth, flossing helps prevent conditions like calculus gingivitis. Additionally, it safeguards against cavities and ensures fresh breath over time.