The Importance of Flossing: A Guide from Dr. Berera

As a dentist in Leichhardt, Sydney, I often hear patients say that they don't floss regularly. Flossing is often overlooked, but it's an essential part of a good oral hygiene routine. In this blog post, I will discuss the importance of flossing and why it should be a part of your daily routine.

What is Flossing?

Flossing is the process of using a thin piece of string, called dental floss, to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and gums. When done correctly, flossing can remove plaque that brushing alone cannot reach.

Why is Flossing Important?

Here are some reasons why flossing is important:

Prevents Gum Disease: Flossing can help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and gums. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other oral health problems.

Prevents Cavities: Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, which can prevent cavities from forming.

Freshens Breath: Flossing helps remove food particles that can cause bad breath.

Saves Money: Flossing regularly can prevent oral health problems that require costly dental treatments.

When Should You Floss?

You should floss at least once a day, preferably before brushing your teeth. It's important to floss before brushing because it loosens food particles and plaque, making it easier for your toothbrush to clean your teeth.

How to Floss Properly?

Here are the steps to floss properly:

1.     Take a piece of dental floss that is about 18 inches long.

2.     Wrap the floss around your fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss between them.

3.     Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.

4.     Gently insert the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion.

5.     Curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure to go below the gumline.

6.     Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.

7.     Use an up-and-down motion to remove the floss from between your teeth.

8.     Rinse your mouth with water.

Tips for Flossing

Here are some tips to help you floss effectively:

1.     Use a floss that is comfortable for you. There are different types of floss available, including waxed and unwaxed, flavoured and unflavored, and thick and thin.

2.     Be gentle when flossing. Avoid snapping the floss into your gums, as this can cause injury.

3.     If you have trouble using traditional floss, consider using a water flosser, which uses a stream of water to clean between your teeth.

4.     Flossing should not be painful. If you experience pain or bleeding while flossing, contact Dr. Berera in Leichhardt, Sydney.

In conclusion, flossing is an essential part of a good oral hygiene routine. It can prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, and it can save you money on dental treatments in the long run. At Berera Dental in Leichhardt, we encourage our patients to floss regularly and properly. Contact us today to schedule a dental checkup and learn more about how to maintain good oral health.