Consistent floss is essential for maintaining good dental hygiene. When you neglect to floss, plaque may accumulate between your teeth and along the gumline, potentially heightening the chances of tooth decay and gum disease over time.
As per the American Dental Association (ADA), interdental cleaners like floss are indispensable for eliminating plaque and debris from areas inaccessible to a toothbrush.
Continue reading to discover the primary advantages of flossing and to understand the recommended frequency and timing for flossing. Additionally, if you’re seeking alternatives to traditional floss for interdental cleaning, we have that topic covered as well.
Why should I floss?
Your toothbrush lacks the ability to access the spaces between your teeth where plaque, a sticky bacterial film, tends to accumulate. Flossing effectively reaches between your teeth to eradicate the plaque.
Through the combined action of flossing and brushing, you eliminate plaque and the bacteria it harbors, which thrives on sugar and food particles lingering in your mouth post-meal.
As these bacteria consume, they release acids capable of eroding your enamel, the tough outer layer of your teeth, thus fostering the formation of cavities.
Furthermore, plaque left unaddressed can solidify into calculus (tartar), which may accrue along your gumline, leading to gingivitis and eventual gum disease.
How often should you floss and when?
The ADA suggests brushing your teeth for 2 minutes, twice daily, and flossing at least once daily. Different individuals may opt to floss either during their morning regimen or as a final step before bedtime.
Typically, it’s advised to floss before brushing your teeth. Flossing usually dislodges food remnants and plaque from around your teeth. Subsequently, brushing assists in eliminating the loosened plaque and particles from your teeth and gum line.
Types of floss
Standard dental floss is typically available in two types: waxed and unwaxed. The choice between them often boils down to personal preference, as the ADA asserts that both types are equally effective. If your teeth are closely spaced or crowded, a wax coating might facilitate easier access to these tight areas.
Floss is also offered in tape form, which is wider and flatter, making it suitable for individuals with tooth gaps.
Moreover, if you have braces, bridges, or gaps, a super floss might be beneficial. This type of floss includes a regular floss thread, spongy floss, and a dental floss threader with a stiff end.
For those who struggle with traditional floss, there are alternative options to consider, such as:
- Water flossers
- Air flossers
- Interdental brushes
These tools allow you to utilize water, air, or small brushes resembling a mascara wand to clean the sides and spaces between your teeth.
According to the ADA, all these tools are acceptable for removing food and debris from your teeth.
Read Also: Two Smiling: Tips to Keep Your teeth and that of Your Baby Healthy
Should I brush or floss first?
The sequence of brushing and flossing isn’t critical, as long as you diligently clean all your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene habits daily.
A 2018 study proposed that it might be more beneficial to floss before brushing. This research suggested that flossing initially loosened bacteria and debris from between the teeth, and subsequent brushing effectively cleared away these particles. Additionally, brushing second resulted in increased fluoride concentration in the interdental plaque, potentially reducing the risk of tooth decay by reinforcing tooth enamel.
However, the ADA emphasizes that both flossing before brushing and vice versa are acceptable practices, depending on individual preference.
Can I floss too much?
There isn’t a limit to how often you can floss unless you’re doing it incorrectly. Applying excessive pressure or flossing too vigorously can potentially harm your teeth and gums.
There may be instances where you need to floss more than once a day, particularly after meals, to dislodge food particles or debris stuck between your teeth.
Are there alternatives to flossing?
Flossing is classified as interdental cleaning, aiding in the removal of interproximal dental plaque, which accumulates between teeth. It also assists in eliminating debris like food particles.
Various tools are available for interdental cleaning, including:
- Dental floss (waxed or unwaxed)
- Dental tape
- Pre-threaded flossers
- Water flossers
- Powered air flossers
- Wooden or plastic picks
- Tiny flossing brushes (proxy brushes)
Consult your dentist to determine which option suits you best. Once you find a tool you prefer, make it a habit to use it regularly for optimal oral hygiene.
Flossing with braces
Braces are orthodontic appliances utilized by orthodontists to:
- Straighten teeth
- Close gaps between teeth
- Correct bite problems
- Align teeth and lips properly
For individuals with braces, both the Mayo Clinic and the American Association of Orthodontists suggest:
- Reducing consumption of starchy and sugary foods and beverages that contribute to plaque formation
- Brushing after every meal to remove food particles from braces
- Thorough rinsing to eliminate any food particles missed by brushing
- Using a fluoride rinse if recommended by the orthodontist or dentist
- Regular and thorough flossing to uphold excellent oral health
When flossing with braces, consider using the following tools:
- Floss threader, designed to thread floss under wires
- Waxed floss, which is less likely to catch on braces
- Water flosser, an interdental flossing tool utilizing water
- Interdental flossing brushes, effective for removing debris and plaque trapped on brackets, wires, and between teeth.
Conclusion
Interdental cleaning, including flossing, plays a crucial role in maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Whether using traditional dental floss, pre-threaded flossers, water flossers, or interdental brushes, the goal remains the same: to effectively remove plaque and debris from between teeth and along the gumline.
Understanding the importance of interdental cleaning tools and techniques can significantly contribute to preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. Consulting with dental professionals can help individuals identify the most suitable interdental cleaning methods for their unique oral health needs.
By making interdental cleaning a regular part of one’s oral hygiene routine and selecting the appropriate tools under the guidance of dental experts, individuals can enjoy the benefits of a healthy and vibrant smile for years to come. Remember, investing time and effort in interdental cleaning today can lead to long-term dental wellness tomorrow.
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