Plaque is a sticky substance made up of bacteria. If that plaque builds up, the bacteria can irritate the gums and lead to inflammation (swelling). If your dentist advises you to clean between your teeth, they will most likely recommend flossing.
How to properly floss
Dental floss is a thin floss made of nylon or plastic that removes food debris and plaque between teeth. If you use it incorrectly, you can damage your gums. It is better to consult a dentist about the frequency of use of such a thread.
Here are some basic rules for flossing that will help you:
1. Cut a piece of dental floss 45 cm long. Wind it around the middle fingers of both hands.
2. Grasp the floss between the thumb and forefinger of each hand so that the length of the floss between the teeth is 2.5-5 cm. Pull it tight so that it can be pulled between two teeth.
3. Gently move the floss up and down the surface of the tooth and also under the gum line.
4. The circular movement of your fingers while flossing will help you clean the line under the gums without injuring them.
5. Repeat these movements for the rest of the next tooth.
6. Unwind a new piece of floss for each tooth by winding the used floss around the middle finger of your other hand.
7. Make sure you floss each tooth. You can come up with a certain sequence for yourself, in which you will be sure that you have not missed a single tooth.
8. Don't forget to brush the back of the teeth and back teeth.
Types of dental floss
There are nylon floss and monofilament floss. What is the difference? The fact is that nylon floss (both waxed and unwaxed) are made up of many strands of nylon that can separate or break, especially during penetration into very narrow interdental spaces. But monofilament (i.e., consisting of one solid fiber) dental floss easily slides between the teeth, even in very narrow spaces between them, and does not separate. True, their cleaning capabilities are the same - both types of threads remove dirt and plaque well.
Why do my gums bleed?
If you are new to flossing, unaccustomed gums may bleed as you get rid of plaque. Keep flossing and the bleeding should stop as your gums get healthier. If bleeding continues after a few days of flossing, it is worth contacting your dentist, but first check that you are following the correct cleaning procedure.
Is it difficult to floss your teeth?
If you find it difficult to hold your floss, you can try using a floss holder or flosser. For some people, they make brushing easier because they hold the floss. Such devices are sold both in pharmacies and supermarkets. If that still doesn't help, then ask your dentist to recommend another method of interdental cleaning, such as interdental brushes.
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