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how to properly floss | springfield il

Proper Flossing Techniques

June 2, 2016
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Posted By: Dr. Shane Ruggless
Springfield IL Dentist | image of hands holding Floss

Spending all the time in the world on taking care of your teeth will not amount to a healthy smile unless you use the proper techniques. If you are looking for a dentist in the Springfield, IL area that focuses on educating patients toward better oral health, you have come to the right place.

We know that your home care skills may have become rusty over time. Techniques are undergoing constant improvement and research in order to help people enjoy their natural teeth for a lifetime.

Flossing Matters

Flossing is one of those home care habits that requires a certain level of practice to master.  Start by taking a nice long piece of floss, about one and half feet in length. Wrap the end of the floss around your middle finger and allow for enough space for you to floss comfortably before wrapping the other middle finger. 

Start with your floss on the upper left back tooth and slide it up and down between the gum and back side of your tooth.  Move on to the spaces in between each of your teeth. Make sure to floss the front side of one tooth as well as the back side of the next tooth before snapping the floss back out.  You can curve the floss around your tooth and form a c shape to get maximum coverage. Floss below your gum line until you feel slight resistance. Don’t force the floss or you may damage your delicate gum tissue.

Repeat until flossing is complete.  Be sure to move down the length of your floss so you always have a fresh piece. We would hate for that nasty plaque and food to redistribute. 

Once you are finished, rinse your mouth. You can also brush again after flossing for full protection.

Springfield IL Dentist

If you have any questions about how to best care for your teeth, contact your dedicated dentist in Springfield, IL, Dr. Shane Ruggless.

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