Dr. Gordon T. Austin Provides Tips on Proper Flossing
Online, August 8, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Many dentists report trouble of getting their patients to adopt regular flossing practices, which is proven to help reduce plaque build-up in areas of the teeth that a toothbrush cannot typically reach. A new report from Dental Health Magazine states that even if a patient does choose to floss regularly, they may be doing so improperly and could be causing further damage to their mouth. The article follows instructions from the American Dental Hygienists Association on how to floss adequately. Dr. Gordon T. Austin, celebrated dentist, expands on these suggestions and encourages everyone to adopt appropriate procedures.
Although brushing one's teeth is only expected to take about two minutes, the article notes that those who floss correctly usually take several minutes to achieve the best results. Since flossing removes particle and plaque build-up on teeth, flossing can also lead to more thorough and effective brushing. While every patient's mouth is different, the article notes that individuals should floss each tooth individually, beginning by flossing between each section. The article notes, "After the sections between each tooth are finished, the floss should be used to slide up and down the surface of the tooth and in between the gum line."
Dr. Gordon T. Austin notes that while flossing takes patience, those who perform the activity incorrectly are more likely to give up on the practice. In response to the article he disagrees with the suggestion that "floss should be held taut between the thumb and index finger on both hands." Instead, Austin recommends, "Floss should actually be wrapped around the two middle fingers of each hand, leaving the thumb and index fingers free to manipulate the floss. Most people wrap the floss around their index and thumb which makes the floss almost impossible to use correctly and leads to much frustration by new floss users."
In addition, people should always make sure to use clean sections of floss with each tooth, as used floss will only redistribute plaque and have a negative impact on oral hygiene. Dr. Gordon T. Austin says that concerned patients should make sure to demonstrate their flossing practices in front of their dentist to ensure that their movements are effective.
ABOUT:
Dr. Gordon T. Austin is a United States Navy veteran and has proudly provided 38 years of service to his country. He currently devotes much of his time and attention to raising awareness and support for issues related to U.S. troops and veterans. In addition, Dr. Austin is a third-generation dentist who has loyally served the Carrollton, Georgia, community for 25 years, as well as an Honorable Fellow of the Georgia Dental Association and a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American College of Dentists, and the International College of Dentists.