Most people know how important flossing is to their oral health, but it can be a hard habit to get into every single day. Flossing removes plaque from along the gumline and in between teeth, which significantly lowers your risk of needing gum disease treatment and experiencing cavities and tooth loss. In addition to performing this task once a day, the flossing technique you use is important for maintaining a bright and healthy smile. Here's a closer look at how to maximize the benefits.

How to Floss Effectively Each Day

1. Use the Right Technique

The best way to start is by winding 12 to 18 inches of floss around each middle finger. Wind the string until only 1 to 2 inches are between your fingers and glide it between each tooth gently. Next, curve the floss into a C-shape to remove plaque along the gumline. Move to new sections of floss as you clean to remove as much plaque as possible.

2.  Know the Different Types of Floss

Choosing the right type of floss ensures the practice is as comfortable as possible. Waxed floss is designed to glide easily, which is good for people with very small spaces between their teeth. There's also flavored floss, which is a bit more palatable for children. 

If you experience limited dexterity due to joint stiffness or some other issue, consider purchasing some floss picks. These handled tools are easy to maneuver between the teeth and offer an effective way to prevent the need for gum disease treatment. Some are simple and disposable, but other models feature refillable heads, which are more beneficial for the environment.

3. Be Gentle

While you should be thorough when flossing, make sure you're using gentle maneuvers as you clean between your teeth. Being too harsh or aggressive can leave small tears in gum tissue, which might then allow bacteria to infiltrate. Bleeding, soreness, and redness after flossing are a sign of gum disease, but these symptoms can also indicate that you're flossing too harshly. In either case, it's best to schedule a checkup with a dentist to prevent more serious effects.   

Along with dependable gum disease treatment, Dr. Robert N. Petrtyl, DDS, also provides patients with essential tips for at-home oral care. This family dentist has provided services to Cincinnati, OH, patients for over 30 years, so you can rest assured that you're in good hands. In addition to exams and biannual checkups, the staff also offers advanced treatments like tooth extraction and root canals in a relaxed office environment. Visit the website to learn more about their gum disease treatment or schedule an appointment by calling (513) 554-4657.