Are you flossing with the proper technique? Ask our Periodontist

If you’re reading this, there’s little doubt you already know about the importance of making dental floss an integral part of your oral hygiene routine. But are you flossing properly? If not, there’s a chance you could be doing more harm than good. Our periodontist at Russell D. Hatfield, DDS, MS, Ltd wants to help ensure you’re using the proper technique.

So, why are we recommending that you floss at least once daily? By doing so we remove food particles that have become lodged between the teeth, which is an effective method of cutting down on bacteria and plaque — that stubborn film that clings to your teeth and contributes to gum disease.

Here are a few handy tips for getting the most out of your flossing routine:

• First, use a length of floss measuring about 18 to 24 inches and wind it around the middle fingers, leaving about an inch or two for your teeth. 

• Holding it tightly with your fingers and thumbs, place the floss between two teeth and lightly glide it up and down against the sides of the teeth. 

• At the bottom of the tooth, wrap the floss into a C shape to clean the space between the gums and teeth.

• Repeat this process between each tooth, using a clean portion of floss each time.

• A note of caution: Do not press the floss into the gums. This can bruise the gums and cause bleeding. If you’re bleeding while flossing, either you’re pressing too hard or you may have signs of gum disease. 

If you’ve noticed your gums are red, swollen or bleeding for a period of time, it’s time to schedule a visit with our periodontist at Russell D. Hatfield, DDS, MS, Ltd. We specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, a condition that affects almost half of all adults over the age of 30. Please contact our office today to schedule an appointment.