Flossing is the use of a fine, thread like material to cleanse between the teeth. It removes plaque in places a toothbrush can't reach easily, such as under the gum line and between the teeth.
There are two types of floss: waxed and unwaxed flosses. As both are equally effective, you can use whichever you prefer.
To make sure you floss all your teeth, start behind the upper molars at one side of your mouth and work to the other side. Repeat on the lower teeth.
Take about 18" of floss and wrap most of it around one of your middle fingers and the rest around the middle finger of your other hand, leaving a 2" length in-between.
Ease floss between teeth. Using your thumbs and forefingers, gently slide the floss between two teeth, curving it around each tooth at the gum line, and move it up and down against each tooth and between the tooth and gum.
Clean up and down several times while around teeth. Do Not Scrub. Take care not to push the floss against the gums as this will cause gum damage. Always floss behind the last tooth. Unwind clean floss as you proceed.
You may experience sore or bleeding gums for the first several days you floss. If bleeding continues after the first week of flossing call your dentist. If you have trouble handling the floss, ask your dentist to show you how.