CarolinasDentist Blog

Find the Right Way to Floss for You

Graphic illustration of two people learning the right way to floss with string floss.

Flossing is an essential component of good oral hygiene, helping to prevent gum disease and remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. However, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to flossing. Finding the right way to floss for you is essential for maintaining a healthy smile.

Flossing with Traditional Floss

Traditionally, one of the most effective flossing methods is string floss. Here are some string flossing tips:

  • Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a few inches of floss to work with.

  • Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it into a C-shape around each tooth and moving it up and down to remove debris.

  • Be gentle to avoid damaging your gums. Use a fresh section of floss for each gap.

This way can also be used with floss threaders, which is primarily helpful for people with braces or dental bridges!

Flossing with Floss Picks

  • Hold the floss pick handle and insert it gently between your teeth.

  • Slide the floss up and down the sides of each tooth, making sure to get into the gum line. Gently rock back and forth to floss the curve of the tooth.

  • Dispose of the floss pick after use.

Flossing with a Water Flosser

  • Fill the water reservoir and adjust the pressure setting to your comfort.

  • Aim the water jet between your teeth, moving it along the gumline.

  • Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific water flosser.

Comprehensive Dental Care in North Carolina

Whether you have braces or not, flossing daily is key to maintaining optimal oral health. If you have any questions about the right way to floss for your mouth, or would like to schedule a routine appointment to determine the best method of flossing for you, please get in touch with our team. With our comprehensive services, we can provide advice and tailored treatment to your unique needs.

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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