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Circle Method for Using Dental Floss

The circle method for flossing upper teeth

Picture of the circle method for using dental floss
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Use a piece of floss about 30 cm (12 in.). Tie the ends together, forming a loop. If the loop is too large, wrap the floss around your fingers to make it smaller.

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The circle method for flossing lower teeth

Picture of the circle method for using dental floss.
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Gently work the floss between the teeth toward the gums. Curve the floss around each tooth into a U-shape, and gently slide it under the gum line. Move the floss firmly up and down several times to scrape off the plaque. Popping the floss in and out between the teeth without scraping will not remove much plaque and can hurt your gums.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Last Revised June 7, 2011

Last Revised: June 7, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine & Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry

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