Dr. Perry Westbrook: The Importance of Proper Flossing

1. Dr. Perry Westbrook: The Importance of
Proper Flossing

2. Specializing in periodontics,
Dr. Perry Westbrook maintains his
Sunnyvale, California practice, emphasizing
proper brushing and flossing as part of a daily
routine that promotes gum health. Flossing is
a particularly vital safeguard against
gingivitis, as periodontal disease typically
occurs between the teeth where toothbrush
bristles cannot effectively reach.

3. The key to correct flossing is to hold the floss taut
between the forefinger and the thumb, and ease it in
between the teeth rather than using a forced
snapping motion (which can break the gum tissue).
Good flossing technique includes not only cleaning
along the gum line but also between the teeth: try
bending the floss in a C shape around the side of
each tooth and moving the floss gently back and
forth. Rinsing completes the flossing process,
removing from the mouth completely the food
particles that were dislodged. In many cases, the
first week or two of regular flossing may be
characterized by soreness or bleeding until the
gums strengthen and heal.