Ever wondered how to floss properly? Things like how much floss to use, what type of floss is best, how often to floss, and any tips that will make flossing more effective?
How To Floss Teeth
Let’s start with length of floss: use about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around the middle finger of each hand. Leave about one to two inches in between to floss with.
Then slide the floss in between the teeth and gently curve it in a C shape around the tooth. Floss up and down on the tooth a few times. Brushing after flossing is the most effective order.
How Often Should You Floss
The Canadian Dental Association recommends flossing daily to prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
Best Types of Floss to Use
The more expensive monofilament PTFE floss for example, GUM brand Eez-Thru Dental Floss, and Oral B Comfort Glide Dental Floss, approximate price $3.99 for 40 and 35 metres respectively, are made from a single filament and are much less likely to shred than multifilament nylon floss.
Aim Dental Floss is a nylon floss available for about $2.99 for 112 yards (102 meters). So for those who have tightly spaced teeth it may be worth the extra cost. Both types can do an excellent job of removing plaque and come waxed and in several flavors.
At Kits Family Dental in Kitsilano, Vancouver, BC, we believe in flossing daily. We also recommend seeing the dentist once every 6 months for cleaning, from ages about 6 months when the teeth erupt to 99 (or beyond). To book an appointment with one of our four friendly dentsits, contact us. We have appointments available starting at 8 am to 7 pm on various weekdays. Our dentist office is open at least one Saturday per month (except June, July, August, no Saturdays).