Floss the Teeth You Wish to Keep

Yes, flossing is absolutely crucial if you wish to keep your teeth for a lifetime. Toothbrushes aren’t able to reach in between the teeth as efficiently as floss. By flossing, you can remove any debris or plaque, the sticky bacteria that forms a film on the teeth or gums. Additionally, flossing simultaneously polishes the surfaces in between the teeth and controls bad breath. Leaving any plaque in tact on the teeth and gums could lead to gum disease and even tooth loss. Simply flossing your teeth daily decreases the likelihood of developing gum disease and increases the likelihood of keeping your gums and teeth healthy for many years to come.

What Type of Floss Should I Use?

Dental floss is available in various forms: flavored and unflavored, waxed and unwaxed, regular and wide. For those individuals with a significant amount of bridge work, wide floss may be the most beneficial. Wide floss, or dental tape, is usually recommended for those with wide spaces in between their teeth. Waxed floss may be easier to slide in between teeth or restorations with minimal space. On the other hand, unwaxed floss makes a squeaking sound to let you know your teeth are clean. In comparison to regular unwaxed floss, bonded unwaxed floss does not fray as much but does tear more than waxed floss. Overall, all these different types of floss clean and remove plaque in the same manner.

Prethreaded flossers, also known as a floss holder, are commonly used and sometimes even preferred. This flosser, which appears to look like a tiny hacksaw, are useful for those with limited dexterity, caretakers who are flossing someone else’s teeth, or people who are just beginning to floss.

A waterpick is not a substitute for brushing or flossing, but they are effective in removing food retained in and around orthodontic braces that a toothbrush cannot access. Remember, a waterpick does not remove plaque.

How Often Should I Floss?

If you could floss three times a day or every time after a meal, then you are almost guaranteed to avoid any periodontal issues in the future. Although with everyone having a pretty full schedule these days, stick with a regimen of flossing at least once a day for two to three minutes.

If you notice any bleeding gums while flossing, this indicates the presence of bacteria and inflammation in between the teeth. If you continue to floss regularly, the bleeding should stop within one to two weeks. Simply flossing your teeth once day can help fight decay!