Brushing and flossing go hand in hand. Most people have a strict mouth brushing routine, however, they do not give flossing a priority. Brushing can eliminate much of the plaque as well as food leftovers from the teeth surfaces. However, a toothbrush may not remove bacterial plaque lodged deep into the spaces between teeth, also known as interdental spaces. Due to this, plaque and food debris tend to be trapped in the interdental spaces. When this happens, you may develop decay on the sides of your teeth. Dental floss helps get rid of the bacterial plaque that lodges in between your teeth. Failure to remove floss may lead to the formation of tartar, the hardened form of plaque. As result, you will need to go for scaling and root planing.
Types of Flossers
Various types of flossers are available to choose from. String floss is the common one. It is constructed of nylon thread that you slip in between teeth to eradicate debris. Floss picks are Y-shaped toothpicks that are pre-threaded with floss. To use this floss, you hold the plastic handle, directing the thread in between your teeth.
Interdental brushes look like small pipe cleaners. They comprise soft bristles and are easily inserted in interdental spaces. Another type is water flossers, also known as oral irrigators. They are ideal for cleaning the areas in between teeth. A water flosser has a wand connected to a water reservoir. It is the ward that channels a stream of water towards the spaces between teeth. The water jets flush away debris and plaque. If you find it difficult to use traditional string floss, you may find water irrigators a good option. They are also loved by kids because they create a fun flossing experience. Additionally, water flossers work better for people with dental appliances, including braces.
When to Use Dental Floss?
Often, many people wonder whether they should floss after or before they brush their teeth. Well, it does not matter whether you floss after or before brushing. Just ensure you put the practice in your schedule. Often, you may want to floss before bed to ensure there are less debris and bacterial plaque in the mouth that can damage your teeth while sleeping. Contact us today to find out about flossing and why you need to do it daily.
Brushing and flossing go hand in hand. Most people have a strict mouth brushing routine, however, they do not give flossing a priority. Brushing can eliminate much of the plaque as well as food leftovers from the teeth surfaces. However, a toothbrush may not remove bacterial plaque lodged deep into the spaces between teeth, also known as interdental spaces. Due to this, plaque and food debris tend to be trapped in the interdental spaces. When this happens, you may develop decay on the sides of your teeth. Dental floss helps get rid of the bacterial plaque that lodges in between your teeth. Failure to remove floss may lead to the formation of tartar, the hardened form of plaque. As result, you will need to go for scaling and root planing.