Floss properly

Among the universal laws of dentistry is the need to brush and floss regularly. But are you flossing correctly? The American Dental Association offers these instructions:

* Using a piece of dental floss about 18 inches long, wrap each end around a finger.

* Hold the floss taut between your fingers.

* Gently rub the floss between each tooth, slowly going back and forth. Don’t push or snap the floss.

* Carefully shape the floss into a C at the gum line, and slide it between the gum and tooth.

* Press the floss firmly against the tooth, carefully sliding it up and down against all sides of the tooth. Then proceed to the next tooth.

* Throw away the floss when you are finished.

— HealthDay News