Central London dentist demonstrates the correct flossing technique
Flossing is very important because it removes food particles and bacteria from hard to reach places not cleaned by conventional brushing. These include in the narrow gaps between teeth and below the gum line. It is these places that are often breeding grounds for bacteria and the location of a lot of dental decay and gum disease.
Dentists recommend that you floss at least once a day to receive the maximum benefits. Proper flossing technique should use about 40 centimetres of floss with the majority wound around one finger on each hand. Tightening the floss between the thumbs until taught, slide the floss up and down between the teeth without forcing it. Gently floss below the gum line all around the bottom of the tooth. For each tooth, use a new and clean section of floss unwound from one of the fingers. To remove the floss, gently work your way back and forth up to the top of the teeth.
It is also important to use the right kind of dental floss for the best results. The two types available are nylon and PTFE. Nylon floss comes in waxed and unwaxed varieties but can sometimes shred when used vigorously between the teeth. PTFE floss is a single thread, unlike the many-stranded nylon thread so is less likely to shred but it is more expensive.
More advice on flossing techniques, which type of floss to use and general dental health advice can be got from your Central London dentist at your next check up. Look after your teeth properly and they will last you a lifetime.
