Dr. Peter Patellis in Kennett Square, PA, Shares the Flossing Fix That Protects Your Gums and Prevents Decay
Flossing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your teeth and gums. But here’s the catch: over 60% of patients do it wrong without even realizing it. Good oral health requires more than just brushing; many people brush their teeth regularly but neglect proper flossing, which is essential for preventing dental issues.
At Kennett Center for Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Peter Patellis helps patients throughout Kennett Square, Avondale, Wilmington, and Oxford perfect their oral hygiene habits for healthier, longer-lasting smiles and improved oral health. Call our Kennett Square dental office at 610-444-6311 to schedule your dental visit, or book online today.
The #1 Mistake? Skipping the Gumline “C-Curve”
Most patients slide the floss straight up and down between the teeth and call it a day. But the most critical part of flossing is gently curving the floss into a “C” shape and sliding it slightly below the gum line on each side of the tooth. This ensures the floss reaches beneath the gum line, where you can remove plaque and food that a toothbrush can’t reach. It’s important to use the ‘floss as you move’ technique—smoothly guiding the floss up and down along the gum line to clean effectively without injuring your gums.
Why It Matters: Plaque and food particles often hide just beneath the gum line. Floss reaches these areas a toothbrush can’t, especially below the gum line, to remove plaque and food. Plaque is a sticky film that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed. If you’re only flossing between teeth without cleaning this area, you’re missing the spots most vulnerable to gingivitis and early gum disease.
5 Signs You’re Not Flossing Effectively
Not sure if your technique is helping or hurting? Here are five common signs your flossing needs a tune-up:
- Your gums bleed easily during or after flossing
- You only floss before your dental visit (yes, we can tell!)
- You reuse the same section of floss for multiple teeth
- You don’t floss your back molars
- You see plaque buildup between dental cleanings, even with daily brushing
Are You Using the Right Floss? How to Choose the Best Tools for Your Smile
When it comes to protecting your teeth and gums from gum disease, tooth decay, and periodontal disease, the type of dental floss you use—and how you use it—can make all the difference. With so many options on the shelf, choosing the right flossing tool might feel overwhelming, but a few simple tips can help you find the best fit for your smile and ensure you’re getting the full health benefits of daily flossing.
Start with the basics: Dental floss comes in several varieties, each designed to tackle different needs. Waxed floss glides easily between tight teeth and is less likely to shred, making it a great choice if your teeth are close together. Unwaxed floss is thinner and can squeeze into smaller spaces, but it may fray more easily. If you have wider spaces between your teeth or dental work like bridges, dental tape—a broader, flatter type of floss—can be especially effective at removing plaque and food particles.
Comfort matters, too. Look for a floss that feels good in your hands and between your teeth. Most people find it easiest to use about 18 inches of floss, winding it around their middle fingers and using their thumbs and index fingers to guide the floss tightly between teeth. Always check for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on the package—this means the floss meets high standards for safety and effectiveness.
The Right Way to Floss—According to Your Dentist Near Oxford
Dr. Patellis, one of the best dentists in Kennett Square, recommends this simple, effective technique for optimal oral hygiene—remember, using the right technique and flossing correctly is essential for healthy teeth and gums:
- Use 18–24 inches of floss and wind most of it around your middle fingers, leaving about 1–2 inches to work with. Use your index finger and thumb to hold the floss taut and guide it.
- Gently guide the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion—never snap it down.
- Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth, sliding it just below the gumline.
- Rub the floss gently in an up-and-down motion to clean the tooth surface and remove dental plaque.
- Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.
After cleaning one tooth, move to the next tooth with a fresh section of floss to ensure all surfaces are properly flossed.
Why Flossing Matters More Than You Think
Flossing isn’t just about preventing bad breath or leftover food—it’s your first line of defense against gum disease and tooth decay, and gum problems, which are the leading causes of adult tooth loss. Plaque buildup in the mouth can lead to decay and gum disease if not properly removed. Studies also link untreated gum disease to serious health concerns like heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.
Brushing removes plaque and food debris from the surfaces of your teeth, but flossing is needed to clean between teeth and reach areas of the mouth that brushing alone can’t access. Even if your teeth look and feel fine, harmful bacteria can build up silently beneath the gums. That’s why proper flossing and regular dental cleanings are critical to maintaining your oral and overall health.
What If Flossing Still Leaves You with Bleeding or Sensitivity?
Don’t ignore bleeding gums—this is often a red flag. It could signal:
- Early gum disease
- Improper flossing technique, such as flossing the wrong way
- Cutting or trauma to the gums from incorrect flossing
- A buildup of tartar
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy)
Dr. Patellis and our dental hygienists in Kennett Square will examine your gums, rule out underlying conditions, and give you a personalized care plan to restore your gum health. A dental hygienist can lead you to better flossing techniques, helping you avoid cutting or injuring your gums and preventing future problems.
Personalized Hygiene Tips at Every Dental Visit
During your cleaning at Kennett Center for Advanced Dentistry, we go beyond routine polishing. We’ll walk you through proper brushing and flossing techniques, emphasizing the importance of regular brushing and making flossing a daily habit for optimal oral health. The American Dental Association recommends daily flossing and brushing to help prevent cavities and gum disease. We also recommend products tailored to your needs (like fluoride toothpaste or floss for sensitive gums), and screen for early signs of gum inflammation or decay.
We also offer:
- Gentle cleanings with advanced ultrasonic scalers
- Non-surgical gum treatments
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
- Oral cancer screenings at every checkup
Let’s Fix Your Flossing and Protect Your Smile—Starting Today
If you’ve been flossing regularly but still have bleeding gums, bad breath, or plaque buildup, you’re not alone—and you’re not failing. A small shift in technique, combined with professional support, can make a big difference.
Call our Kennett Square dentist today at 610-444-6311 to schedule your cleaning and hygiene consultation—or book online anytime. Dr. Patellis proudly serves patients in Kennett Square, Avondale, Oxford, Wilmington, and beyond with judgment-free care and clear guidance. Your healthiest smile starts with the basics—and we’re here to make them easy.