Gangnam Dental Clinic Flossing Tips: If You Use It Correctly, Your Teeth Will Be Healthier

Hello. This is Lucid Dental Clinic.

Today, we’d like to talk about the necessity and methods of using dental floss, something many people find confusing or have questions about.

If you’ve always thought that brushing thoroughly alone was enough, we hope this post will help you recognize the importance of flossing once again.

What is dental floss?

Dental floss is an oral hygiene tool used to remove food debris and plaque stuck in the gaps between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach.

It is commonly used by wrapping the string-like plastic fiber around both hands, and it is effective for keeping the spaces between teeth clean.

Because a toothbrush alone cannot perfectly clean every surface of the teeth, floss must be used together, especially to clean blind spots such as the spaces between teeth where the bristles cannot easily reach.

When should you start using floss?

Floss can be used from the time baby teeth are present. In general, from around age 4 or 5, when a child begins brushing on their own, it is advisable for a parent or guardian to help with flossing as well.

Of course, it is even more essential for adults. It is especially recommended for people undergoing orthodontic treatment, those with a history of gum disease, and those sensitive to bad breath.

Benefits of using floss

1. Prevents oral diseases

Food particles and plaque stuck between teeth gradually turn into hard tartar over time. Tartar can cause inflammation in the gums and lead to gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Using floss can effectively remove this bacterial film and help prevent cavities and gum disease.

2. Removes food debris

Floss neatly removes food debris that cannot be eliminated by brushing alone. Especially after eating meat or foods high in fiber, residue tends to remain between the teeth, and cleaning it out with floss helps the feeling of freshness last much longer.

3. Prevents bad breath

One of the main causes of bad breath is the decay of food stuck between teeth. Using floss removes food debris and can help prevent bad breath. It is especially effective before an important appointment or before going to bed.

4. Maintains overall oral health

Floss not only keeps the spaces between teeth clean, but also helps reduce the total amount of bacteria in the mouth. As a result, it improves overall oral health and makes tartar removal during regular scaling easier.

How to use floss correctly

1. Cut the floss length

Cut about 30 cm of floss and wrap it around the middle fingers of both hands.

2. Adjust the floss position

Use the thumbs and index fingers of both hands, leaving only about 3–4 cm of floss in the middle.

3. Insert between the teeth

Gently insert the floss between the teeth and press it against the side of the tooth in a 'c' shape, then move it up and down 5–6 times.

4. Move to the next tooth

It is hygienic to move to a clean section of floss each time you clean one tooth.

Precautions when using floss

Do not use excessive force

If you force the floss in or out, your gums may be injured or bleeding may occur. It is important to use it gently and slowly.

Do not reuse floss

Used floss may have bacteria on it, so it should not be reused.

Visit the clinic if gum bleeding continues

A small amount of bleeding may occur when you first start using floss, but if bleeding continues or is accompanied by pain, it is best to receive professional dental care.

Use at least once a day

We recommend using floss at least once a day after brushing. In particular, using floss before bed is effective in reducing bacterial growth in the mouth.

Floss Q&A

Q. What is the difference between interdental brushes and floss?

A. Interdental brushes are suitable for people with wider spaces between teeth or orthodontic appliances, while floss can be used for all teeth. It is good to choose one that fits your condition or use both together.

Q. Can I use it every day?

A. Of course. It is fine to use floss every day, and in fact, daily use is more helpful for maintaining oral health.

Q. My gums hurt when I use it.

A. There may be some discomfort at first if you are not used to it, but most people adapt after a few days. However, if the pain continues, the usage method may be incorrect, or there may be inflammation in the gums. In such cases, we recommend visiting a dental clinic for consultation.

Floss is such an effective oral care tool that there is even a saying: 'There may be people who have never tried it, but there are none who have tried it only once.' Once you experience its benefits, it easily becomes a habit. Though small and simple in appearance, it is a reliable guardian that protects your daily oral health.

At Lucid Dental Clinic, we also kindly explain how to use floss during regular checkups, so feel free to contact us anytime if you have any questions.

For your healthy teeth and smile, Lucid Dental Clinic will be with you.

Lucid Dental Clinic 3rd–4th Floors, Coway Building, 606 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul