Learning How to Floss: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

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What is the Right Way to Floss?

Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach — under the gumline and between your teeth. Because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, daily flossing is highly recommended.

To receive maximum benefits from flossing, use the following proper technique:

Starting with about 18 inches of floss, wind most of the floss around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two of floss to work with
Holding the floss tautly between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up-and-down between your teeth
Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gumline. Never snap or force the floss, as this may cut or bruise delicate gum tissue
Use clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth
To remove the floss, use the same back-and-forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth

What Type of Floss Should I Use?

There are two types of floss from which to choose:

Nylon (or multifilament) floss
PTFE (monofilament) floss

Nylon floss is available waxed and unwaxed, and in a variety of flavors. Because this type of floss is composed of many strands of nylon, it may sometimes tear or shred, especially between teeth with tight contact points. While more expensive, single filament (PTFE) floss slides easily between teeth, even those with tight spaces between teeth, and is virtually shred-resistant. When used properly, both types of floss are excellent at removing plaque and debris.


Use about 18" of floss, leaving an inch or two to work with.	Gently follow the curves of your teeth.	Be sure to clean beneath the gumline, but avoid snapping the floss on the gums

11/15/2010

dental abscesses and infection in gums - colgate my

Tooth & Gum Abscesses - What You Should Know What You Need To Know

You're relaxing after a day at work or spending time with your family when you feel a sharp pain in your mouth. If you have a history of dental problems – such as infection in gums, teeth or even cavities – the pain could be related to a dental abscess.There are two types of dental abscess: A periapical, or tooth abscess, affects the root of the tooth. The other type, a periodontal (gum) abscess, affects the gums. The latter usually occurs in severe cases of periodontal disease, when the gums have pulled away from the teeth, causing pockets to form. Both types of abscess consist of small pockets that fill with bacterial pus. With the right treatment, you can recover from either type and regain control of your oral health.