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Dental Tips
Norge Dental Center
• 
Jan 9, 2017

The Benefits of Flossing

The Benefits of Flossing

Flossing is a key part of maintaining good oral health, yet it’s often overlooked. While brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.

In this guide, discover why flossing matters and how it supports your daily dental hygiene routine.

Why Flossing Is Important

Recently, questions have been raised about the American Dental Association’s recommendation to use floss at least once a day. In the absence of conclusive scientific evidence, the Associated Press reviewed 25 studies, raising some doubts about flossing’s effectiveness. So what should we believe? 

The ADA points out that any study to date is either too short or too haphazard to draw definitive conclusions. On the other hand, some research does suggest potential benefits. For example, one study found that children who had their teeth flossed by a trained dental hygienist at least five times a week experienced a 40% reduction in cavities and gum disease. 

Your dental hygienist at Norge Dental Center can help you perfect your flossing  technique in order to maximize flossing’s benefits.

Tips for Effective Flossing

To get the most out of your flossing routine, proper technique and consistency are key. Follow these tips to help ensure you’re cleaning effectively between your teeth:

  • Use a gentle back-and-forth motion to guide the floss between your teeth.
  • Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and slide it up and down along the sides.
  • Make sure to reach just below the gumline to effectively remove plaque.
  • Use a clean section of floss for each tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.
  • Floss once per day as part of your daily oral hygiene routine.
  • Take your time—rushing can lead to missed areas or improper technique.
  • If traditional floss is difficult to use, consider alternatives like floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.

For personalized guidance, consult your dentist or dental hygienist to ensure your flossing technique is as effective as possible.

Perfect Your Flossing Routine with Norge Dental Center

Flossing is a simple habit that plays a significant role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When done correctly and consistently, it can help prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. For additional support, the dentists at Norge Dental Center can help demonstrate proper technique and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

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