Perfect Your Flossing Technique With These Dentists’ Step-by-Step Instructions

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Flossing is as necessary as brushing your teeth when it comes to maintaining your oral health. So why do only 16% of Americans floss daily? Some people see flossing as an extra hassle that they simply don’t have time to fit into their daily routine, but it is critical to reducing the bacteria in your mouth and preventing cavities. This article will outline the steps you can take to start flossing each day the way that dentists recommend.

  1. Pick the right floss for your teeth. There are a few different ways to go when picking out your next supply of floss at the grocery store. Standard floss is the most-used variety and comes waxed or unwaxed. Go for the waxed floss if your teeth are crowded together, as the wax will make it easier for the floss to get in those tight spaces. Super floss works well if you have dental appliances like braces because it has three parts to it. The spongy part of it cleans around the appliance, the stiff part cleans under, and the regular floss works on the gum line and between the teeth. The last option is dental tape, which looks more like a ribbon and works best on teeth with gaps between them.
  2. Take 18 to 24 inches of dental floss and wrap most of it around your two middle fingers. Hold it taut and move the floss up and down each side of the tooth, taking care not to dig into the gums too much. Curve the floss around the base of the tooth to dislodge any food particles near the gum. Be sure to use a new section of floss for each new tooth.
  3. Brush your teeth after flossing. Many people brush their teeth before flossing, but brushing after ensures that all of the food particles and bacteria dislodged during flossing get washed away. If flossing is the final part of your routine, those particles may stay on your teeth and contribute to plaque buildup.
  4. If you have braces, follow the steps above, but first, thread the floss underneath the wire to get to the teeth. Take care when removing the floss, so you don’t snap a wire.

Make an Appointment With Babylon Dental Care

Babylon Dental Care is seeing patients for our full array of services, from routine cleanings to cosmetic dentistry. Call us today at (631) 983-6665 to make your next appointment.

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“Babylon Dental Care is an amazing practice! I had an issue with my teeth and they took me immediately. Their friendly and compassionate staff walked me through each step and in a matter of a week I had that tooth extracted and my flipper ready for every day use! You can’t even tell I have it in! The office is spotless and they even have Netflix! How cool is that! You’re welcomed as soon as you walk in and they made me feel so comfortable. Dr. Golo and Dr. Knakal took such good care of me and I would recommend them to anyone! The office is so convenient and literally across the street from my home so it doesn’t get better than that! Thank you Babylon Dental!”

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“I have been using Babylon Dental Care for almost 10 years. Dr. Brown, Jen, Melody and Michelle are incredible. They are always concerned with the patients well being and health making it a different experience. They treat you like family, not a patient. I use them for dentistry and their silent night therapy. Thank you for taking care of my family. Great job team!”

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“This was my first time at this Dental office. I went in for a cleaning and dental exam. The office is Clean and modern. I felt comfortable and welcomed right from the start. My hygienist 'Melody' was great! I feel that she was very thorough, talked me through everything she was doing and made recommendations for improving my routine at home. My dental exam with Dr. Diamond was just as pleasant. I liked that she also took her time and I didn't feel rushed. All-in-all it was a good experience. The entire team at the clinic displayed a high level of professionalism and made me feel comfortable throughout my visit.”

Brenda S

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Angela P

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“Absolutely incredible team. From the very moment you walk in you're greeted with kindness and people who want to help you. When I was asked how everything was I literally told them I was speechless. Having had terrible experiences as a kid with dentistry I wasn't sure if the nice things I've heard and read would live up to my expectation. I'm so glad they met them, and even went above and beyond what I had imagined. They offered me several options (a comfort menu) for things I could ask for to help make the time go by easier and with less anxiety.. all for free! If you have been holding off due to how long it's been and how anxious you might be then take this as your sign to look into coming here. I really truly am so glad I overcame my fear and made my appointment, they are just *that* good”

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