Simple Tips for Better Flossing

While brushing your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health, flossing (while more commonly forgotten about) is just as important! Flossing helps to prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. Most people skip flossing because it can seem tricky or time consuming. However, flossing isn’t hard at all if you know what to do. After all, floss can reach places in your mouth a toothbrush can’t. Below are 3 secrets from Dr. Joseph Ryan at McAllen Orthodontic Group to make flossing simpler.

• Be Generous! – Flossing isn’t as simple as one would think, which is probably why so many people view it as a nuisance and choose to skip it. Fortunately, floss is an inexpensive product, so you don’t need to be conservative with it. Having a generous supply of floss makes it easier for you to use a clean section for each tooth, which is far more hygienic than the alternative.
  
  
• Be Gentle! – You don’t want to jam the floss in between each tooth with too much force or vigor. Vigorous flossing won’t produce positive results and will actually be uncomfortable and/or painful. Flossing slowly and steadily is the way to go!
  
  
• Get a Grip! – Make sure the floss is securely held or even wrapped around your fingers. Having a firm grip allows you to have the most control over where the floss goes and how much pressure you apply!
  
  

Next time you brush your teeth, make sure you take the time to floss as well. Your mouth will thank you! Be sure to incorporate the tips above to make flossing simpler! As always, we are here to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact our office with any questions you may have.