Beyond the Brush: Reading Between the Teeth

We’ve all heard it a million times before; brushing is only half the battle. Our dentists have been telling us our entire lives that flossing is just as important as brushing, but somehow so many of us think it’s OK to simply ignore that instruction. Some of us even pay for this deliberate neglect in cavities or worse and yet here we are, continuing to ignore the warnings. When we don’t take proper care of our teeth all the affordable dental plans in the world won’t make a difference. So let us here at Ameriplan try once more to convince you of the importance of flossing…

First let’s talk about the why: Flossing isn’t just about removing food from between your teeth. Sure, if you have a piece of food stuck in there flossing is the best way to remove it but if that’s the only time you’re flossing then you are not doing it nearly as often as you should be. Flossing every day is essential to taking proper care of your teeth and gums. Brushing alone cannot remove all of the plaque on your teeth. There is plaque that builds up in between your teeth that can only be reached by floss. Having a healthy flossing routine, that means doing so at least once a day, is a key factor in preventing gum disease and cavities. If that’s not enough to get you into a routine maybe the aesthetic benefits will kick you into gear. I mean, who wouldn’t want to have a big, bright, beautiful smile to flash people?

Now for the how: According to the American Dental Association there are 5 steps to a perfect flossing-

1) Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.

2) Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.

3) Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.

4) When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.

5) Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth. Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.

So there you have it. The why and the how of flossing laid out in an easy quick reference form for you. The health of your teeth is extremely important and our Ameriplan providers understand that completely. Browse through our discount dental plans and choose the one that’s best for you and your family.