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Tips on Flossing


Happy man flossing teethBesides brushing, you also need to floss to eliminate food debris stuck between your teeth. Flossing is a simple technique that only requires an appropriate floss to perform effectively. Investing two minutes daily will prevent bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Our dental team at Chicago Dental Esthetics can guide you on how to keep your teeth and gums clean. We perform thorough evaluations to determine the best options to restore your oral health. Tartar buildup can increase the odds of oral problems like gingivitis and periodontal disease. Our specialist may recommend dental cleanings if you have tartar buildup.

Types of Dental Floss


There are two principal types of dental floss you can find in stores today. Dental tape is more affordable but can be complicated to use. It consists of thin fibers laid across a flat sheet of plastic material. Even though it is harder to use, you may get used to it after some time. Some people prefer dental tape since the thin strands can get under food debris.

Other people prefer using the traditional wax floss for its simple gliding motion. It contains the compound Polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE, which is considered safe for your gums and teeth. PTFE allows the floss to glide smoothly between your teeth. Even though it is more expensive, it may be the best choice if you are sensitive to dental floss.

Handling the Floss


Flossing once a day is sufficient for keeping your teeth and gums free from food debris and plaque. Too much flossing can have adverse effects, especially on sensitive gums. You should ensure you cover all the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Proper handling will give you more control when flossing and eliminate all the food debris between the teeth.

Make a C-shape by wrapping the floss between the middle finger. Use your thumb and forefinger to control the movement of the floss against the tooth. Place the curved floss against the side of the tooth.

Some people find it easier to cut the floss to make it easier to handle. But a longer floss that wraps around your hand may offer better control. Start flossing on one side of the mouth before working on the opposite side. Move the floss up and down while applying gentle pressure on the mouth. Repeat the process four or five times, ensuring you touch the gums.

Vary the flossing technique when cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Circular movements ensure the debris dislodges from between the teeth. Repeat the circular motions until the areas between the teeth are clean.

Dental Checkups and Cleanings


While flossing and brushing daily is essential for your oral health, it is also advisable to schedule dental checkups. A dental checkup can be performed every six months and can address issues like sensitivity and bleeding. Timely diagnosis can reduce the time and cost it takes to treat oral health problems.

Your teeth may need dental cleaning to remove tartar buildup. Tartar is a calcified form of plaque that requires skill and experience to clean. Removing tartar deposits can reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Talk to our dentist at Chicago Dental Esthetics for dental cleanings and checkups. Contact (224) 341-5162 to schedule an appointment with our dentist.
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