6 Steps to Proper FlossingDo you have the right technique?

Why is flossing important?Brushing alone is not going to keep

your teeth healthy. Bacteria hide in the crevices between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.

That’s why flossing is critical. It cleans the spaces of your teeth that your toothbrush can’t. If you don’t already, start flossing every day, and do it right. The next six slides will show you how:

1. Pick a floss.Find a floss you like. Some floss is

thin and minty, some floss is thick and not flavored, and some floss you can use as a “floss pick.” Each one has its pros and cons, so pick the one best suited for you.

2. Wrap it around your fingers.Tear off about 18 inches of floss

and wind each end around your middle fingers. Grab a couple inches of the floss with your pointer finger and thumb.

3. Start flossing.Glide the floss gently between

your teeth in a sawing motion. If you’re too rough, you can damage your gum tissue.

4. Angle it accurately.Make sure you angle the floss so

it grasps the tooth in “c” shape. Do this for each tooth, continuing in a gentle motion.

5. Don’t miss any teeth.The best method is to

start with your upper molars on your left side and work in a clockwise direction.

As you move on, make sure you unwind and rewind the floss on your fingers so that there’s a clean section of floss for each set of teeth.

6. Follow up with brushing.Always brush your teeth after

you floss, and never before. Brushing will help wash away any leftover bacteria that was let loose from flossing.

Always Visit Your DentistVisiting your dentist every six

months is just as important as flossing every day. Your dentist makes sure everything looks normal and that you don’t have cavities.

Book an Appointment TodayIf you haven’t seen your dentist

in a while, book an appointment with him today.

If you live in Colorado and are looking for a Broomfield dentist, consider seeing Dr. Robert McBride.

To set up an appointment with him, you can contact McBride Family Dental at (303) 466-2221 or visit mcbridefamilydental.com.