We’ve all heard of the recommendation from the American Dental Association about brushing and flossing your teeth twice per day. This is particularly important because it helps remove food particles and plaque from the surface of your teeth. The fluoride additive in the toothpaste helps build and strengthen your tooth enamel. Even though you might brush and floss every day, there are still areas on your teeth that simply cannot be cleaned.

You should always floss immediately after brushing your teeth to remove the food particles that are hidden between them. Brushing alone will only clean the surface areas of your teeth. If plaque were to develop between your teeth, it could develop into tartar. Tartar is the leading cause of tooth decay and gum disease.

An effective way to floss is by using a 16 to 18-inch piece of floss. If you have having trouble getting the floss between your teeth, a waxed floss solution might work better for you since the wax coating helps the floss to slide easier without the risk of gum injury.

Wrap the floss over two fingers as to not cut the circulation off from one finger, and then curve the floss into a U shape. Make sure you floss between every tooth, behind your back teeth, and into the gum line. Missing these areas can promote and harbor plaque and tartar.

If you would like more information about flossing or would like to schedule a cleaning, then call our office at 209-473-2521. We will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.