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Proper Flossing Technique

Patients commonly mistake flossing as being an optional hygiene practice. In reality, flossing is just as important as brushing. Drs. Na Xu and Mark Thomas hear many reasons why patients aren’t flossing at their bi-annual checkups. Don’t be one of them! That’s why Healthy Smiles Family Dental, located in Salem, OR, is providing this flossing guide and some tips.


 


The majority of the patients treated at your Salem dental office never learned to floss properly. Proper technique makes all the difference in your teeth. First, remove around 18 inches of floss from the packet. Twirl one end around each of your middle fingers. One finger will control the clean floss, the other the dirty floss. Next, hold the floss taut and carefully move it between your teeth. Wrap the floss around one of the two teeth in a “C” shape. Move the floss up and down, rubbing between the teeth. Repeat this for all of your teeth.


 


One of the biggest dental mistakes possible is not flossing daily. Only through flossing can you clean certain areas of your mouth. Your toothbrush isn’t able to clean everywhere, but floss can. There are solutions for patients struggling to floss. If you have tight gaps between your teeth, purchase floss of a thinner substance. There are also handheld flossing applicators sold at most stores.


 


Integrating flossing into your daily oral hygiene routine is crucial to your health. To learn more tips, or to schedule your bi-annual checkup with Drs. Na Xu and Mark Thomas, contact Healthy Smiles Family Dental. Our office is located in Salem, OR. For appointments, visit our website or call 503-385-1185.


 

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