Flossing

Flossing is an important part of your daily brushing routine at home. It removes food particles that your toothbrush just can’t access. Flossing not only improves your breath, it reduces decay and keeps your teeth looking their absolute best.

If you find floss difficult to use, there have been alternatives designed to make life a lot easier. For example, Piksters. They are interdental brushes that come in all different sizes to cater for everyone. Otherwise there are floss holders that make it easy to hold onto the floss instead of wrapping around the tooth.

By flossing once a day, preferably at bedtime, you will reduce your cavity rate and also help to prevent gum disease. Also, be gentle when flossing to avoid inflamed gums. If you experience bleeding gums, this is an indication of bacteria present, so gently massage gum line with a soft toothbrush. It’s an essential daily exercise that will keep your teeth and gums healthy in between your routine dental examinations every six months.

It is also very important to floss whilst you have braces. There are alternatives that can assist you such as Super floss, Piksters etc. If you neglect to floss you can develop gum disease, and be susceptible to sensitive, red and swollen gums. Healthy gums will also assist in the progress of your orthodontic treatment.

How to floss:

1. From the dispenser, pull approximately 30 centimetres of dental floss.
2. Fasten the ends of the floss around your middle and index fingers.
3. Pull the floss tight around each individual tooth in a C shape, move the floss back and forward gently, being careful not to saw the gum however in a pull-push and up-down movement against each tooth.

Please take care of your pearly whites by implementing this necessary task into your dental routine at home.