My Dentist in Bakersfield CA, Recommends Daily Flossing for Optimal Oral Health

At My Dentist in Bakersfield, we believe that good oral hygiene is the foundation of a healthy smile. One of the most important habits you can develop is daily flossing. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline, areas that a toothbrush may not reach effectively.

Regular flossing can prevent cavities, reduce the risk of gum disease, and promote fresh breath. We recommend flossing at least once a day, using a gentle sawing motion to clean between each tooth. If you need assistance finding the right floss or technique, our friendly team is here to help.

Make flossing a part of your daily routine for a healthier, brighter smile!

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Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. It helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and below the gumline, areas that a toothbrush can't reach. Proper flossing can prevent cavities, gingivitis, and other gum diseases. Follow these steps to floss your teeth effectively:

 

Materials Needed:

• A length of dental floss (about 18 inches)

• A mirror (optional but helpful)

 

Step-by-Step Instructions:
 

1. Prepare the Floss

• Cut about 18 inches (45 cm) of dental floss.

•  Wind most of the floss around your middle fingers on both hands, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss between your fingers to work with.

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2.    Position Your Hands

• Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers.

• Gently slide the floss between your teeth, using a gentle back-and-forth motion. Avoid snapping or forcing the floss into your gums to prevent injury.
   

3.    Clean the Tooth Surfaces

• When the floss reaches the gumline, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth.

• Gently slide the floss into the space between the tooth and gum.

• Move the floss up and down several times to remove plaque and debris.

• Repeat this process on the adjacent side of the same tooth.
   

4.    Move to the Next Tooth

• Unwind a fresh section of floss from one finger and wind the used section onto the other finger.

• Repeat the cleaning process for each tooth, making sure to clean both sides of every tooth.
   

5.   Be Gentle

• Use a gentle motion; aggressive flossing can damage your gums.

• Ensure you reach beneath the gumline to remove plaque but avoid forcing the floss or causing bleeding.
   

6.   Finish Up

• Once you've flossed all your teeth, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash.

• Discard the used floss properly.
   

Tips for Effective Flossing:

• Floss once daily, preferably before bedtime.

• Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth.

• If you find traditional floss difficult, consider alternatives like dental picks, floss picks, or water flossers.

• Do not neglect any areas, including the back molars and areas around dental appliances.

Additional Advice:
If your gums bleed when you floss, continue flossing gently. Bleeding often decreases as your gums become healthier through consistent flossing. If bleeding persists or worsens, consult your dentist.

By incorporating proper flossing into your daily routine, you help ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy, reducing the risk of dental problems in the future.