Lifting an ingrown toenail with dental floss is a technique for relieving the pain and discomfort associated with an ingrown toenail. These occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling and pain. If caught early, this method can be a temporary solution that provides relief until proper medical care can be sought. However, it should be noted that attempting to floss an ingrown toenail should be done with caution. It is always advisable to seek medical attention to avoid further complications.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to lift an ingrown toenail with dental floss:
Step 1: Gather necessary supplies Before attempting to lift an ingrown toenail with dental floss, gather all the necessary supplies. You will need clean dental floss, a pair of clean scissors or nail clippers, a clean towel or cotton balls, and antiseptic solution such as hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol.
Step 2: Soak the foot Soak the affected foot in warm water for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to soften the skin and reduce swelling, making it easier to lift the ingrown toenail. You can add a mild antiseptic solution, such as Epsom salt, to the warm water to help reduce the risk of infection.
Step 3: Dry the foot After soaking, pat the foot dry with a clean towel or cotton balls. Make sure the foot is completely dry, as moisture can promote the growth of bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
Step 4: Prepare the dental floss Cut a small piece of clean dental floss, about 18-24 inches long. It should be long enough to wrap around the affected toe and lift the ingrown toenail.
Step 5: Lift the nail Gently slide the dental floss under the edge of the ingrown toenail. Be careful not to force it or cause further damage to the skin. Once the dental floss is under the nail, use a gentle upward motion to lift the edge of the nail away from the skin. This helps to relieve the pressure on the surrounding skin and reduce pain.
Step 6: Keep the dental floss in place Once you have lifted the ingrown toenail, use a clean towel or cotton balls to gently pack the floss against the lifted nail to keep it in place. Avoid using excessive force or pulling the floss too tightly, as this can cause additional discomfort or damage to the nail or skin.
Step 7: Clean the toe Using an antiseptic solution, such as hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol, clean the affected toe and the area around the lifted nail. This helps to reduce the risk of infection and promotes healing.
Step 8: Change the dental floss regularly It is important to change the dental floss regularly, at least once a day, to maintain cleanliness and prevent the buildup of bacteria. To do this, carefully remove the old dental floss and replace it with a new piece of clean floss using the same technique as described above.
Step 9: Seek medical care Lifting an ingrown toenail with dental floss is a temporary solution and should not be considered a substitute for proper medical care. It is important to seek professional medical care, such as from a podiatrist or healthcare provider, as soon as possible to address the underlying issue causing the ingrown toenail. They can provide appropriate treatment, such as trimming the nail properly, prescribing antibiotics if there is an infection.
Step 10: Practice preventive measures To prevent future occurrences of ingrown toenails, it is important to practice good foot hygiene.
