It is a widely accepted belief that flossing should be included in a daily oral health routine. It is the only guaranteed way to remove food particles between the teeth and disrupts cavity causing bacteria. Most people think there are not many ways to mess up while flossing and while it may seem simple, there are a few mistakes that could end up causing you to get restorative work at the dentist.
Here are the five common mistakes to watch out for:
1. Using the same section of floss the entire time
Flossing is a way to get rid of bacteria in the mouth but if you use the
same floss throughout, you may just be moving the bacteria from one
spot to another.
2. Skipping teeth in the very back
Some teeth have an open space next to them. It is still important to run
the floss on the backside of those teeth to clear off the bacteria hiding
there.
3. Snapping the floss between teeth
Some teeth have tighter spaces in between them than others. When
you're flossing, try not to force the floss between those teeth so that it
jumps down to the gum line. Instead, move the floss gently back and
forth until it glides through.
4. Quitting because the gums start bleeding
It can seem scary when the gums start bleeding but it is actually a sign
of gingivitis. The gums start bleeding because the body sends more
blood there to fight the accumulating plaque. This condition can actually
be ameliorated by flossing.
5. When you floss aimlessly and miss teeth
There are quite a few teeth in the mouth so when you floss without
paying attention, you may miss one or two by accident. Making a plan and
keeping to it should help make sure you leave no spot untouched.
R. Eric Emery, DDS
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
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