Clearing debris from the areas between your teeth is a crucial part of your oral health routine and will help in preventing various dental concerns. Here, our North Delta dentists discuss the importance of flossing and the different tools that can help you floss properly.
It doesn't matter what you've eaten or who you are, you can be sure that throughout the day many particles of food, even if they cannot be seen, have become trapped in your teeth.
Toothbrushes are our main method of defence against dental hygiene concerns but they are still unable to get into the tightest of spaces within our mouths, this is where flossing becomes very important in order to remove build-up and prevent conditions like cavities and gum disease.
The Different Types of Tools For Flossing
When it comes to flossing, there are many different types of flossing tools available. Here, our North Delta dentists share some of the various types of floss and flossing tools available for this important oral hygiene practice.
Using Traditional Floss
Whether it's waxed or unwaxed, it will be the technique that you use while flossing that determines the effectiveness.
To start, you should gather about 18 inches of floss and wind it around your fingers. Then, slide the floss gently up and down between your teeth. Move the floss in a “C” shape around each tooth, and be sure to go below your gum line.
If used correctly, regular floss should be able to pick up most of the bacteria left behind in your teeth after you have finished brushing.
Floss Picks To Make Flossing Easier
Floss picks provide ease and convenience to flossing as they only require a single hand to manage. While being able to floss with a single hand may be easier it is not as effective as regular floss.
Floss picks do not allow you to reach all the angles that regular floss can so you won’t be able to clean your teeth as thoroughly.
Regular floss is recommended above floss picks as these floss picks are still unable to reach everywhere but if you do not have access to traditional floss then they will do.
Flossing Using a Waterpik
The Waterpik Water Flosser is a clever device that uses a stream of pressurized water to "floss" your teeth and gums.
Using the Waterpik device is simple as you simply direct the flosser tip along the gum line and allow the water to remove any plaque and food particles for you.
Flossing using the Waterpik Water Flosser can also help to reach difficult areas and make flossing easier for those that have braces or any forms of dental work.
When Should You Be Flossing?
While it is important to floss frequently and consistently, it is entirely possible to floss too much and cause irritation to your gums.
Along with your twice-daily tooth brushing routine, you should also be ensuring that you have one good flossing session a day preferably at the end of the day.