Most people brush, but many skip the floss. Flossing is the only way to reach the 35% of your tooth surface that a toothbrush simply can't touch. Failure to floss is a leading cause of gum disease among adults in Australia.
To floss effectively, use about 45cm of floss. Wrap it around your middle fingers and use your thumbs and index fingers to guide it. Move it gently between each tooth in a 'C' shape, reaching just below the gumline to clear away hidden plaque.
Flossing isn't an 'extra' step; it's a fundamental part of keeping your teeth for life. Clean between your teeth to save your smile.
If your gums bleed when you floss, it's often a sign that you need to floss *more* frequently, not less. Bleeding indicates inflammation that regular flossing will help heal over time.
Mastering the Art of Flossing
Our hygienists at Spring Farm Dental are happy to demonstrate the best techniques during your next cleaning. We also offer advice on water flossers and interdental brushes for those who find traditional floss difficult to use.
- Reach the hidden plaque between teeth that brushes miss.
- Prevents gingivitis and the onset of gum disease.
- Reduces bad breath by removing trapped food particles.
- Saves you money by preventing cavities in hard-to-reach spots.
- Only takes two minutes a day for a lifetime of benefits.