5 Flossing Secrets You Wished Your Dentist Told You (So We’re Telling You Now)

Can we tell you a secret, from one Sharonville dentist to a patient? When we ask if you’ve been flossing and you lie to us, we can always tell. We read those gums like a book. You’re not fooling us one bit, only yourself.

But the thing is — flossing isn’t just important, it’s also easier than you think. Studies show that flossing regularly leads to fewer cavities and a lower risk of gum disease. We understand that it’s tough to get started, especially because your gums will bleed at first. But like regular exercise, the more often you do it, the easier it gets. Check out these 5 tips for easier and better flossing.

Use Lots of Floss. It’s Okay.

Don’t be stingy with the floss. Use as much as you need. It’s okay. That’s why they sell it by the football field, literally. It’s important to get a clean part of the floss as you go around each tooth. Otherwise, you’re just moving the plaque around. Be sure to use plenty to get a good grip, enough to wrap it a few times around your fingers.

Give Your Teeth a Hug

Flossing is all about giving your teeth some much-needed love, so don’t be afraid to give them a hug. Wrap the floss snugly around each tooth and gently work your way into the gums. Nice and easy is the key. While some bleeding is natural when you first begin or already have gum disease, flossing too hard can damage the teeth. As a general rule, if it hurts too much, you’re doing it wrong. Go easy.

Buy Quality Floss

Don’t be afraid to buy the more expensive floss in the drug store. You want a floss that is strong and has quality. That way it will be less likely to get caught in your teeth.

Floss in the Shower

If you avoid flossing because you don’t have time, try flossing in the shower. If you wait for a few minutes for your conditioner to set in, this is a perfect time to floss and even brush. Load up a toothbrush with toothpaste, wrap a long piece of floss around the handle, and take it into the shower with you. It can feel good to brush and floss while warm water runs down your toes.

Appreciate the Clean

Last but not least, appreciate how clean your mouth feels after you’ve brushed and flossed. Your gums will not only be healthier, but they’ll feel better, kind of like that fresh feeling when you’ve just gotten out of the shower. And your breath will be so much cleaner! Ever notice that nasty plaque smell on the floss when you’re finished? That may seem gross, but keep in mind that’s plaque that would otherwise be in your mouth if you hadn’t flossed. Your significant other has to smell that, not to mention bosses, coworkers and friends. Fresh breath has benefits