Flossing Tips from Your Dentist in Teddington

Most people know that brushing twice a day is essential for maintaining good oral health, but brushing alone isn't enough. Flossing plays a vital role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy by cleaning areas that your toothbrush simply can't reach.

In this article, our dentist Dr Ben Griffith guides us on how to properly floss the teeth and why it's such an important part of our oral care routine. If you'd like further advice from our Teddington dentists, don't hesitate to contact us.

The importance of flossing & how to do it right

Why is flossing important?

Our dentist Ben explains that every day, food particles and plaque can build up between your teeth and along the gumline. Over time, this plaque can harden into tartar, increasing your risk of tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.

Flossing helps to remove plaque and debris from these hard-to-reach spaces, reducing the risk of cavities between the teeth and helping to keep your gums healthy. Regular flossing can also help prevent gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, which can lead to more serious dental problems if left untreated.

How to floss properly

Ben reassures us that flossing only takes a few minutes and can make a significant difference to your oral health.

• Use enough floss - Take around 45cm (18 inches) of dental floss and wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a few centimetres to work with.
• Guide the floss gently - Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers and gently slide it between your teeth. Avoid snapping it into your gums.
• Curve around each tooth - When the floss reaches the gumline, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it beneath the gumline.
• Move up and down - Carefully move the floss up and down against the side of the tooth to remove plaque and debris.
• Repeat for every tooth - Use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

If traditional floss is difficult to use, interdental brushes or floss picks may be suitable alternatives. Our Church Road dentists and hygienists can advise on the best option for your needs.

Make flossing part of your daily routine

Flossing once a day, alongside regular brushing and attending routine dental check-ups, can help protect your teeth and gums for years to come. It may seem like a small step, but it can have a big impact on your overall oral health.

Need advice on your oral hygiene routine?

At Church Road Dental Care Centre, we're here to help you maintain a healthy smile. If you'd like personalised advice on flossing, interdental cleaning or any aspect of your oral health, please get in touch with our friendly team today.