What is the right way to floss?

Flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot reach — under the gumline and between your teeth.

Plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease so daily flossing is recommended.

To receive maximum benefits from flossing, use the following proper technique:

Starting with about 18 inches of floss, wind most of the floss around each index finger, leaving an inch or two of floss to work with

Holding the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up-and-down between your teeth

Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gum line. Never snap or force the floss, as this may cut or bruise delicate gum tissue

Use clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth

To remove the floss, use the same back-and-forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth

If you have any queries, please ask your hygienist or dentist at your next visit.