What Is the Right Way to Floss?

You've heard that flossing is good for your dental hygiene, but might be wondering why — or how to do it correctly. Well, proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush can't 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.

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.

If it's hard to use regular floss, you can try floss picks, water flossing or a variety of alternative flossing tools. No matter how you do it, cleaning between your teeth will help keep your smile sparkling.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.