It may seem hard to believe, but many people do not floss, let alone floss daily. Yet flossing is even more critical than brushing when preventing gum disease, gingivitis, and tooth loss. Flossing your teeth is not so much about removing food bits that are between your gums, though it does do that. Flossing is more about removing dental plaque. Dental plaque is what causes tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease. Flossing every day between each tooth is an effective way to remove plaque and provide good oral health. 

Here are some tips to help you floss effectively:

1. Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around your middle fingers and holding the rest between your thumbs and index fingers.

2. Gently insert the floss between your teeth, using a back-and-forth motion.

3. Curve the floss into a C-shape around the base of each tooth and gently slide it beneath the gumline.

4. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth, and be sure to use a fresh section for the upper and lower teeth.

5. Remember to floss behind your back teeth.

6. Be gentle and take your time to avoid injuring your gums.

By following these tips, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.