A Lost Skill

I decided to switch my major about 3 weeks postpartum with Jaxson. Since then, I had my routine appointment with my dental hygienist to have my teeth cleaned. I was very excited to talk to her and see how things in the dental field have changed since my days as a dental assistant, more than 5 years ago. As the appointment went on, it came as no surprise to me that she said the biggest issues when it comes to oral hygiene in people is the lack of flossing. She also said to me that it wasn't just people not flossing, but people truly not knowing the proper way to floss, in order to be thorough. It was then that I decided that I would make it a priority to teach and show my daughter how to floss. For those that need a bit of a reminder, here it is!

Overview

The purpose of these instructions is to teach people the proper way to floss your teeth. Most cavities and periodontal disease begin between the teeth. While yes, brushing is important, the bristles of your brush can't reach in between your teeth. To keep your gums and teeth healthy, you should remove the plaque between your teeth at least once a day after brushing them (instructions on brushing here), and before using mouthwash, preferably before you go to sleep.

Warning

If your teeth are too tight to floss or if it catches or tears, call your dentist. These are problems that need to be addressed.

Warning 2.0

If your gums are infected they'll bleed when you floss, and that is to be expected if you are just beginning to floss. After a week or so of regular flossing the bleeding should go away.

Materials Needed

1. Mouth full of pearly whites

2. Dental floss of your choosing

3. Your two hands :-)
   

     

        **Optional** Mirror

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Obtain the proper amount of floss

  Start by opening the floss container, and pulling out the

 dental floss from the container. Break off about 18 inches. 

Fig. 1 Floss. There is an abundance of different kinds, 
your dental healthcare professional can recommend one 
for your needs.
Image Source: http://school.discoveryeducation.com/clipart/category/hlth0002.html
       
        Step 2: Prepping for oral insertion

Fig. 2 About one inch of floss to use.
Image Source: http://www.wikihow.com/Floss

You then will wind the ends of the floss around the middle fingers of each hand, leaving about five inches between your hands. Pinch the floss between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving about one inch in between to work with.       See Fig 2.

            Step 3: Insert the floss 

Fig 3 Insertion of floss. Be careful not to force floss. 

Image Source: http://www.orident.pl/uslugi_dentystyczne/periodontologia.html

Gently slide the floss down between two of your teeth, using a rocking motion. (Be sure to not force the floss in, or to snap it into place.) You may find it helpful to use your thumbs to gently push the floss in between your teeth. Once the floss reaches your gum line, curve and pull the floss tightly in a C shape around the side of the tooth and slide it under the gum line. (Be careful not to push the floss into your gums. You can cause damage to the gums.)  See Fig 3.

            Step 4: Clean those teeth

Fig 4 Move on to the next section of teeth. 
Image Source: http://www.watereefamilydentistry.com

Once you have completed steps 1-3 you are now ready to clean the teeth. Clean the surface of the tooth with an up and down motion, not side to side until the surface is clean. When all the plaque has been removed you will hear the floss start to squeak. Then you will pull the floss around the next tooth and repeat the process. Unwind the floss to a fresh section, and gradually work your way around the mouth cleaning both sides of every tooth.

   

           

 Step 5: Enjoy the feeling

 I can't speak for all, but for me the feeling of a clean mouth 

is the best feeling ever! Now that you are all done flossing,

 throw that floss piece away and enjoy!

   

Closing Remarks

Some may choose to use mouthwash after, some may not. Either way, if you continue to floss I can guarantee that your next appointment with your hygienist, they will notice a difference! Now you know why brushing your teeth is just HALF the battle!

Updates! 

It has come to my attention, that unlike me, not everyone can floss their teeth without looking in a mirror. So having a mirror in order to see what you are doing until you get the "feel" for it, is optional.