How many times has the dentist told you that you need to floss, or start flossing properly? We recommend this because there are things that even the best brushing can miss! To avoid the onset of gingivitis, tooth decay, and gum disease, you really need to clean in between each tooth. In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentist explains how to floss correctly!
Catching What a Toothbrush Misses
A toothbrush is an effective means of removing food particles from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line. You should brush when you wake up and then again before bed every day, for at least two minutes each time. While doing so is essential for your oral health, brushing alone each day isn’t enough. After all, the bristles often cannot reach everything caught between your teeth, or trapped in the gum line. Instead, you need something designed specifically to clean between each and every tooth.
Flossing Your Teeth
You should floss every evening before going to bed. We suggest taking a 20-inch length of tape, and wrapping each end around a thumb. Then hold it tight with your index fingers. Run the tape up and down the length of every tooth, dipping below the gum line in a “c” motion each time. Do this for each side of every tooth. Your gums may initially feel sensitive or bleed, but if you keep up with flossing then sensitivity will abate. For children, a pick may be easier until their dexterity improves. You may also use a water flosser if you prefer.
Dental Cleanings
These habits help keep your smile clean and reduce the severity of plaque buildup. But how do you remove plaque completely? For these, you need a routine cleaning every six months. The cleaning involves using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to carefully and gently break up and remove all plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your smile. We then polish your teeth. You leave with a brighter appearance, and a lowered risk of cavities and periodontal troubles. If you have any questions about how we clean between your teeth, and what you need to do from home to keep smiles strong, then contact our team today. A few simple steps can keep your smile bright and healthy!
Schedule Your Next Cleaning Today
Better care at home means a lowered risk of cavities, gum disease, and the need for extensive dental care. Schedule an appointment today and learn about preventive and general treatment options. You can also call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. Find our office at 15010 S Black Bob Road Olathe, KS 66062. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.