Fighting Back Against Plaque

Beat Gum Disease with Careful Flossing

You may not realize it, but even a 'clean' mouth is full of bacteria. These naturally occurring microorganisms feast on even the most minute leftover food particles, then deposit sticky 'plaque' residue on the teeth. Throughout the day, this substance accumulates, hiding in places where toothbrushes can't reach. If left to harden into tartar, this plaque irritates your gums and can trigger inflammation and gum disease. Sound nasty? Well, it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, you can virtually eliminate plaque by not only brushing, but properly flossing, every day. You see, your toothbrush only cleans the tops and sides of your teeth, whereas floss cleans between them, polishing your tooth surfaces and controlling bad breath. In just two or three minutes per day, you can effectively fight off those bad bacteria.

Correct flossing is pretty simple. Most dextrous people use the spool method; some who are less nimble with their fingers find the loop method successful. Start with about 18 inches of floss, wind most of it lightly around your middle finger and wind the remaining floss around your other hand's middle finger, taking up the used floss as you go. Now, push the floss in between your teeth using your index fingers and thumbs, bringing the floss up and down several times while hugging the sides of each tooth, reaching below the gum line, forming a "C" around each tooth with the floss. Avoid rubbing it from side to side. Or, use the loop method: make an 18-inch strand of floss into a circle, then tie it with three secure knots and place all of your fingers within the loop. Next, use your index fingers to direct the floss through your lower teeth, and your thumbs to direct it through your upper teeth. Reach below the gum line and hug the teeth with a "C" of floss around the sides. Finally, if you're not especially skilled with your hands, or if you have to floss someone else's teeth for them, consider our pre-threaded 'flosser' or floss holder.