Did you know that oral diseases harm nearly 3.5 billion people in the world’s population? Brushing your teeth is essential for achieving beautiful and healthy teeth. Flossing also is a part of cleaning your teeth.
Flossing may get messy, but it’s essential to care even between your teeth. If you aren’t flossing, you aren’t caring for your teeth.
But how do you floss back teeth effectively? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn how to floss back teeth, what floss to use, and more.
Choose the Right Floss
Choosing the right tool for the job is one of the most important factors in flossing your teeth. Several options, such as traditional dental floss, floss picks, and water glaciers, are available today. Let’s inspect each type and determine which would work best for you.
Traditional Dental Floss
Dental floss has been around for centuries and remains one of the most effective ways to clean teeth. It comprises thin nylon or plastic material strands that can slide between your teeth to remove food particles and plaque.
When choosing traditional dental floss for cleaning your back teeth, opt for a waxed or shred-resistant variety, as they tend to glide more smoothly between tight spaces without breaking. Also, choose a longer length (around 18 inches) to have enough slack to wrap around your fingers comfortably.
Floss Picks
Floss picks are small plastic tools with a piece of floss attached to one end and a toothpick on the other. They make flossing more accessible for people with difficulty maneuvering traditional dental floss.
Floss picks can help reach your rear teeth as they have a more extended handle that allows you to get further into your mouth. However, they may not be as effective as traditional floss when removing plaque and food particles.
Water Flossers
Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, use a stream of water to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth. They direct water flossing into the spaces between your teeth, flushing out any build-up.
Water flossers are an excellent alternative for those who find traditional flossing difficult. They are also great for people with braces or dental implants.
Use Proper Technique
Proper flossing of back teeth can be tricky, but with the appropriate technique, it can be done like a pro. Slide the floss between your support teeth, curving it around each tooth, and reach below the gum line.
Start by holding the floss taut between your thumbs and forefingers. Gently insert the floss between your rear teeth using a sawing motion until it reaches just below the gum line. Also, you can visit a dental office in Colorado Springs; the dental professionals there can teach you how often to floss your teeth.
Cut an Adequate Length of Floss
One important tip to remember when flossing rear teeth is to cut an adequate length of floss. This means that you should use enough floss to reach between each of your rear teeth without having to strain or readjust the floss.
Take about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers on both hands, leaving about two inches between them. By cutting an adequate length of floss, you can ensure you are removing plaque and food particles from your teeth, promoting a healthier and cleaner smile.
Form a C-shape Around the Tooth
Flossing your back teeth like a pro, start by forming a C-shaped curve with the floss. This will help you reach the tight spaces between your teeth and gums. Gently glide the floss up and down, cleaning both sides of each tooth.
Be careful not to snap the floss or force it too hard, as this can damage your gums. With practice and patience, you can master flossing your teeth and achieve a clean and healthy smile.
Start with Your Back Molars
To floss your back teeth like a pro, focus on your back molars. These teeth collect most food particles and plaque, making cleaning crucial.
Begin by pulling a length of floss and winding it around your middle fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss between them. Repeat this process for each back molar, and you’ll floss like a professional soon.
Move to the Next Tooth
Once you have flossed the first tooth, moving to the next tooth is essential, rather than reusing the same section of floss. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria and food particles that may have been removed from the previous tooth.
Remember to take your time and be gentle while flossing. This will ensure a thorough and effective flossing experience for a healthier smile.
Repeat for Each Back Tooth
Repeat this technique for each back tooth, cleaning both sides of the tooth. This will help to keep your back teeth healthy and prevent cavities.
As you progress, be sure to use a new section of floss for each tooth to prevent the spread of bacteria. Remember to take your time and be gentle to avoid causing any discomfort. With this simple finishing step, your back teeth will be clean and your mouth fresh.
Rinse and Clean Up
After effectively professionally flossing your back teeth, finishing the process with a rinse and cleanup is essential. Start by taking a mouthful of water and swishing it to loosen any remaining debris.
Make sure to cleanse your mouth again to remove any loosened particles. Following the simple steps outlined above, you can ensure that your back teeth are thoroughly cleaned and free from plaque and bacteria.
Follow These Guides on How to Floss Back Teeth
Knowing how to floss back teeth is essential in maintaining good oral hygiene. With the proper techniques and floss tools, you can easily incorporate it into your daily routine. So why wait?
Start practicing these flossing tips today and see the difference in your dental health. Don’t forget to schedule regular dental checkups to maintain a healthy and happy smile. Happy flossing!