Any dentist will tell you flossing is a vital oral care practice that keeps your teeth and gums healthy. Flossing once a day removes excess plaque and bacteria that collects between teeth, resulting in tooth decay and cavities. While it may seem pretty simple, there are ways to cause more harm than good. Use this guide to the do's and don'ts of flossing to ensure you get the most out of this dental care habit. 

Do:

Use a new section of floss for each tooth.

The goal of flossing is to eliminate food and debris that can be problematic when trapped between teeth. If you are using the same piece of floss while you clear your mouth, it increases the likelihood you are simply redistributing the bacteria within your oral cavity. Using 18 inches of floss may seem like a lot, but it supports the effectiveness of this oral hygiene practice. 

Floss every day.

Although it's been said time and time again by your family dentist, it's not uncommon for someone to want to shorten their morning or nighttime routine by eliminating flossing. However, flossing is not a practice to be utilized as needed, or for times when you eat particularly stringy foods. It removes up to 40% of the plaque that causes cavities and gum disease and, for this reason, it must be practiced every single day.  

Don't:

Stop if your gums bleed. 

When most people see blood, their instinct is to stop what they are doing. As the earliest sign of gingivitis, flossing is more critical than ever. If you notice bleeding, continue flossing gently with a fresh piece of floss for each tooth. If you continue with this routine, the bleeding and inflammation will stop. 

Snap your floss.

The space between your teeth is delicate and requires a gentle back and forth motion while cleaning. Forcing or snapping the floss can cause gum recession that can lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay. Additionally, it can cause bleeding and general discomfort. When flossing, wrap the string around the tooth in the shape of a C at an angle and gently swipe up along the tooth to clear away plaque.

Are you looking for a quality dentist to care for your family's teeth? Residents in Lincoln, NE, choose Dr. Richard A. Brunmeier DDS. For over 28 years, this full-service dental practice has provided general care, cosmetic dentistry and emergency dental services for patients of all ages and stages of dental care. Using state-of-the-art dental materials and procedures, Dr. Brunmeier and his skilled staff can provide optimal results and healthy smiles. To learn more about the compassionate team, visit the website. To schedule an appointment, call (402) 484-6644.