You probably know that flossing is an essential aspect of a good dental care routine, along with regular visits to a preventative dentistry. However, flossing incorrectly can hamper your oral health and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. This guide explains the best flossing practices to utilize, as well as actions you should avoid to maintain a bright, healthy smile. 

Do:

Ensure you're using enough floss. 

You should use at least 18 inches of floss when cleaning your teeth, which is roughly the length of a rolling pin. Using this much floss allows you to move to a clean section as you go, which prevents you from spreading plaque and bacteria around the mouth. In the same token, never use a soiled piece of floss to clean a new section of your teeth. 

Cover all areas of your teeth. 

In addition to flossing between teeth, make sure you're also removing plaque from along the gum line. It's rather easy to miss this area, which can lead to inflamed gums and a greater risk of tooth decay in the area where enamel meets gum tissue. To clean along the gum line, curve the floss into a C shape and move it over the top of each tooth. 

Don't:

Neglect brushing in favor of flossing. 

While flossing is an integral aspect of maintaining good oral hygiene, it cannot take the place of brushing. Flossing is not a good substitute for brushing because it only eliminates plaque from between the teeth and along the gum line. In order to avoid tooth decay and advancing gum disease, you must brush twice per day, floss once per day, and visit a preventative dentistry twice a year for teeth cleanings. 

Floss too aggressively. 

Being gentle when flossing prevents damage to gum tissue. When tissue is damaged, the bacteria that reside in your mouth will be able to infiltrate your gums and potentially cause advanced gum disease. Be thorough when removing plaque from your teeth, but avoid flossing too harshly.

Since 1990, patients have trusted in the services and advice offered by Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS. This preventative dentistry offers essential services like cleanings and exams, but they can also help restore your smile to its former condition. They can even help you deal with after-hours dental emergencies should the need arise. Schedule an appointment in Sacramento, CA today by calling (916) 689-1100. You can also learn more about this dental clinic's services by visiting the website.