How to Floss Your Way to Healthier Gums

Flossing is one of the simplest yet most effective habits you can incorporate into your daily routine to protect your gums and overall health. It might seem like a small step, but regular flossing makes a big difference in your quest for healthy gums.

At Whole Body Dental in Bellevue, Washington, we believe in holistic dentistry, which means promoting good oral and whole-person wellness using the gentlest, most natural approaches possible. 

It’s easier than you think to achieve and maintain good gum health. This month, our blog is covering the essentials of flossing: Why it’s important, how to do it, and how it can improve your oral health. Read on to learn why flossing is worth the effort. 

Why flossing is so important for gum health 

Brushing alone doesn't remove all the bacteria and food particles that get trapped between your teeth. That's where flossing comes in. 

By flossing daily, you can clean those hard-to-reach areas that toothbrushes simply miss. You can think of it as brushing between your teeth! Removing these particles helps prevent plaque buildup, which is the leading cause of gum disease.

When plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which can irritate the gums and lead to inflammation—a key sign of gum disease. 

Over time, this inflammation can progress, causing bleeding gums, receding gums, and even tooth and jaw bone loss. Nearly 50% of adults over the age of 30 have periodontal (gum) disease today, and the risk only increases as you age. 

Flossing, along with regular teeth cleanings and dental check-ups, can prevent these issues from developing and escalating.

How to floss your way to good gum health 

Flossing is important, but flossing correctly is even more important. Here are a couple of simple tips to do exactly that :

Use enough floss

Use about 18 inches of dental floss. Wind it around your middle fingers, leaving about two inches suspended between your fingers to work with.

Use proper movements

Gently slide the dental floss between your teeth, moving back and forth. Gently curve the floss in a C shape to move around the sides of each tooth. 

Get under the gum line

Make sure you get just beneath the gum line, as that’s a prime area for plaque (and later tartar) to accumulate. 

What if I struggle to floss?

Struggle with flossing? That’s okay, you’re not alone. Try an alternative option like floss picks, which might be easier for you to hold. 

Water flossers could also be an option if you can’t manage regular dental floss, but make sure to choose one with the American Dental Association Seal of Approval. 

Let’s floss your way to healthy gums!

We understand it can feel daunting to start new habits, but we’re here to help you floss your way to healthy gums. If you're concerned about your gum health or have noticed signs of gum disease, don’t wait to take action. Contact us online or call our Bellevue office at 425-842-0435 today.