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How Do You Use Periodontal Floss?

Published in Oral Hygiene Flossing Technique 2 mins read

Using periodontal floss correctly involves a specific technique to effectively clean beneath the gum line and between teeth where plaque and debris accumulate.

Understanding the Technique

Periodontal flossing is a vital part of oral hygiene, focusing on cleaning the areas that toothbrushes can't easily reach. The key is gentle but thorough action.

Here’s how to use periodontal floss effectively:

  1. Gently Insert: Work the floss gently between the teeth toward the gum line. Avoid snapping the floss, as this can injure the gums.
  2. Shape Around the Tooth: Curve the floss in a C-shape around each individual tooth. This allows the floss to hug the tooth's surface.
  3. Slide Beneath the Gum Line: Carefully slide it beneath the gum line. Be gentle; you should feel slight resistance, but it shouldn't cause pain.
  4. Clean Up and Down: Carefully move the floss up and down several times against the side of the tooth. This motion helps to remove interdental plaque and debris from both the tooth surface and just beneath the gum line.
  5. Repeat: Repeat this process on the adjacent tooth surface and for every tooth in your mouth, using a fresh section of floss for each new area.

Why Proper Technique Matters

Using the correct technique ensures you are not only removing visible food particles but also targeting the invisible plaque film that can lead to gum disease (periodontitis) if left unchecked. The C-shape and gentle movement beneath the gum line are crucial steps often missed with basic flossing.

Step Action Purpose
Insertion Gently work floss between teeth. Reach the interdental space.
C-Shape Curve floss around tooth. Hug the tooth surface.
Beneath Gum Line Carefully slide floss below gum line. Clean the sulcus (pocket).
Up and Down Movement Move floss several times against the tooth. Remove plaque and debris effectively.

Regular, correct use of periodontal floss complements brushing and significantly contributes to maintaining healthy gums and preventing the progression of periodontal disease.