Most people think brushing your teeth twice daily is enough to keep your oral hygiene healthy. For sure, dental flossing is not part of it. But did you know that every time you skip flossing, there is a plaque buildup between your teeth and gum line? So understanding the importance of flossing plays a crucial part in your dental routine. Here are some tips on how to floss correctly.
What are the Benefits of Dental Flossing?
- Removes Plaque Between your Teeth
If you forgot to floss, there is remaining food, plaque and bacteria in between your teeth or gum line that can harden into tartar. These are not completely removed when you brush your teeth.
- Avoid Bacteria and Microorganisms in your Mouth
There are millions of germs and bacteria found in your oral cavity. You can’t see these in the naked eye, which can deteriorate your teeth without you noticing it. You may eventually need a teeth whitening treatment to address your yellowing teeth. But when you floss regularly, you can prevent the bacteria from turning into plaque that stains your teeth over time.
- Say Goodbye to Bad Breath
Food particles with bacteria stuck between your teeth cause an unpleasant odour. You can rid these unsightly particles through flossing, keeping your teeth clean and your breath smelling fresh.
- Reduce the Risk of Gum Disease
Plaque buildup leads to gum diseases like gingivitis. It causes redness, irritation and inflammation in your gingiva, which presents a harmful bacteria that can harm your overall health. Flossing removes the bacteria at the base of the teeth, reducing the risk of gum diseases.
Types of Dental Floss
There are many different types of dental floss. The one which will benefit you the most depends on your liking, needs and the gap between your teeth. These include the following:
- Standard floss: It is made of thin nylon fibres twisted together that are designed to fit through tight spots between your teeth. It comes in flavoured, unflavoured, unwaxed or waxed. Dental floss with wax makes it easier to get in between tight teeth.
- Dental tape: This is similar to dental floss but is flatter and broader like a ribbon. Easy to use for people with a large gap between teeth or dental braces.
- Super flosses: It has three distinct components: spongy floss, dental floss threader with a stiff end and standard floss. Using super floss is suitable for cleaning bridges, braces and wide gaps between teeth.
When is the Best Time to Floss?
There are different practices as to when to brush flossing your teeth. For example, some people brush their teeth first, then use natural dental floss and gargle with mouthwash afterwards. However, it is highly recommended to floss and then brush your teeth. Why use this floss rule? Flossing helps remove the food and plaque between your teeth, while brushing removes these unwanted particles from your mouth.
If you’re wondering how often you should floss, you can do it once a day and brush your teeth twice a day.
How to Floss Your Teeth Correctly?
Now that you understand the importance of teeth flossing and the type of dental floss you need, here’s a quick step-by-step guide to proper flossing:
- Wind about 18 inches of dental floss around one of your middle fingers.
- Hold the floss tightly between your forefingers and thumbs.
- Gently slide the floss between your teeth in a rubbing motion.
- Never break the floss into the gums as it can damage your gum tissue.
Turn to Water Flosser Guide for Trustworthy Dental Advice
When it comes to oral health care, only ask for trustworthy dental advice. Contact Water Flosser Guide today, and we will provide you with well-researched information you can rely on. In addition, you can check out our articles to learn more about your specific oral needs.
