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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slide 1 of 2, The circle method for flossing upper teeth,

Use a piece of floss about 12 in. (30 cm) long. 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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slide 2 of 2, The circle method for flossing lower teeth,

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.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Current as ofMay 7, 2017

Current as of: May 7, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine