What is the meaning of flossing and why is it necessary and important?
Even with the best brushing technique, your interdental spaces often cannot be adequately cleaned, which can lead to undesirable plaque formation. In fact, by brushing alone, you only clean about 60-70% of the surface of your teeth. Bacteria multiply in the narrow interdental spaces, promoting the development of tooth decay, gum sensitivity, frequent gum inflammations, periodontitis, and even bad breath.
However, there is an effective solution to counter these risks: the benefits of flossing come from regular use. By using dental floss between your teeth, you also reach the tightest areas and effectively remove residues and plaque. So in a way, flossing is necessary on a daily basis.
In this article, you will learn how to use dental floss correctly and what alternatives exist. Discover the best techniques to effectively clean tight interdental spaces and how to keep your flossed teeth clean.
How to properly floss your teeth: best flossing technique explained
Proper use of dental floss and knowing how to clean between your teeth is crucial to effectively removing plaque and food residue.
Here is a detailed guide that shows you how to floss your teeth correctly and effectively:
- Choose the right dental floss: There are different types of dental floss available, such as waxed or unwaxed floss, or alternatives like dental floss picks or interdental brushes. Choose the variant that best suits your needs and tooth structure.
- Wind the dental floss: Take about 45 to 50 cm of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers. Leave a section of about 10 cm between your fingers to work with.
- Hold the dental floss correctly: Hold the free ends of the dental floss between your thumb and index finger, leaving a distance of about 2-3 cm between your fingers.
- Gently thread the dental floss: Carefully guide the dental floss between two adjacent teeth.
- Clean the interdental space: Once the dental floss is inserted into the space, form a C-shape around one of the teeth. Move the dental floss gently up and down to remove plaque and residues. Make sure to reach the gum line as well.
- Repeat the process: Continue moving the dental floss to each adjacent tooth, using a fresh section of floss each time. This avoids spreading bacteria and residues from one tooth to another.
- Rinse your mouth: After cleaning all interdental spaces, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water to remove any remaining residue.
By following these steps, you now know a good flossing technique, to floss properly and effectively in order to achieve optimal cleaning of the interdental spaces. Remember to do this regularly, ideally once a day.
Flossing before or after brushing: when should you floss?
Many people wonder if they should floss before or after brushing. There is no strict rule on whether flossing should be carried out before or after brushing your teeth. Both sequences can be effective as long as thorough cleaning is performed. The choice depends on personal preference.
How many times a day should you floss?
Many wonder how often you should floss. To effectively remove plaque and food residue from interdental spaces, it is recommended to use dental floss at least once a day. Make sure to be gentle and thorough, and don't forget to clean the back teeth and tight spaces. Consistent use of dental floss helps maintain oral health.
Types of dental floss: difference between waxed and unwaxed dental floss
Both types of dental floss have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice between waxed and unwaxed dental floss depends on personal preferences, individual need, and the condition of the interdental spaces. It is advisable to try out different types and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Waxed dental floss
Waxed dental floss is a popular choice for cleaning the interdental spaces. This type of dental floss is coated with a thin layer of wax, which facilitates smooth gliding between the teeth. Due to its smooth surface, waxed dental floss slides gently through tight spaces and effectively removes plaque and food residue. Waxed dental floss is particularly suitable for people with closely spaced teeth or sensitive gums, as it generates less friction.
Unwaxed dental floss
Unwaxed dental floss is made of a thin, uncoated nylon or plastic fiber. The difference between waxed and unwaxed dental floss is that the unwaxed dental floss may be slightly thinner and can thread more easily into very tight interdental spaces. This type of dental floss may require a bit more dexterity and technique to use correctly, as it does not have the same level of glide as waxed dental floss. Unwaxed dental floss is a good choice for individuals who require thorough cleaning in tight spaces and do not have an issue with the additional friction.
Alternatives for traditional dental floss: what can be used instead of it?
There are various alternatives to traditional dental floss that can help you clean the interdental spaces. Here are some options you can consider:
Floss sticks vs regular floss: what is the difference?
Dental floss picks, also known as flossers or floss sticks, are small, handy instruments equipped with preloaded dental floss and are one of the alternatives to flossing. They are easy to handle and allow for convenient cleaning of the interdental spaces. Dental floss picks can be particularly useful when you are on the go or have difficulty using traditional dental floss. However, ultimately the choice between floss sticks vs regular floss comes down to personal preference.
Water flosser or oral irrigator vs dental floss: is it better?
A water flosser or oral irrigator is a device that delivers water or a mouthwash solution in a pulsating stream. Using a water flosser or oral irrigator vs dental floss can be an effective alternative as it flushes out plaque and debris from the interdental spaces. A water flosser can be especially beneficial if you have sensitive gums or struggle with using traditional dental floss. When choosing between a water flosser or dental floss, it's important to note that a water flosser cannot fully replace the thorough cleaning provided by dental floss.
Dental floss or interdental brushes?
Interdental brushes are small brushes specifically designed for cleaning the interdental spaces. They come in various sizes and can be more effective than dental floss for larger spaces. Interdental brushes can be a good option if you have difficulty handling traditional dental floss or if your interdental spaces are larger.
When considering dental floss vs interdental brushes, it's important to take into account your individual needs and preferences. You can also experiment with both options to see which one works best for you.
Dental floss for braces, retainers, or aligners: how to properly floss teeth with orthodontic appliances
During orthodontic treatment, the type of appliance can affect the use of dental floss. For fixed appliances such as braces or fixed retainers, special dental floss is required. Flossing between the teeth and along the gumline can be more challenging as the wires cannot be removed. However, with the right technique and appropriate tools, it is still possible to effectively clean the teeth.
On the other hand, removable appliances like aligners or removable retainers allow for easier use of dental floss. Since these appliances can be easily taken out, individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment can use dental floss as usual. This facilitates access to the interdental spaces, making it easier to remove plaque and food residue.
Consistent oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is crucial. Consult with your orthodontist for further guidance on using dental floss for braces, retainers or aligners.
Impress aligners allow for better oral hygiene with dental floss.
Our aligners are a fantastic alternative for teeth correction, providing you with the opportunity to maintain and even improve your oral hygiene routine. Unlike conventional orthodontic appliances, aligners are removable, allowing you to brush your teeth and use dental floss as usual. This means that you can continue practising good oral hygiene habits to keep your teeth and gums healthy during the aligner treatment.
If you're interested in starting orthodontic treatment with us or finding out if these or other dental treatments are available at your nearest Impress practice, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment online through our website, by phone, or via WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions about dental flossing
Bleeding gums when flossing: what to do?
If your gums bleed when flossing, it is due to the use of dental floss. You should do the following: check your technique and the amount of pressure applied while flossing, use a gentle and cautious motion and consult your dentist if the gum bleeding persists.
What happens if you don't use dental floss?
If you don't use dental floss, food particles and plaque can accumulate between your teeth, leading to tooth decay, gum disease and gum bleeding. Using dental floss helps prevent these issues and maintains oral health.
What is dental floss made of?
Dental floss is made of thin threads or ribbons of plastic or nylon designed to remove plaque and food particles between the teeth.
When should you floss?
It is recommended to use dental floss at least once a day to thoroughly remove plaque and food particles and maintain oral hygiene. When should you floss? Whether in the morning or evening, the timing is not important.
What to use instead of dental floss?
Many wonder what to use instead of dental floss. As explained in the article, there are alternative methods for cleaning interdental spaces, such as interdental brushes, interproximal brushes or water flossers. These can also be effective in removing food particles and cleaning the interdental spaces.
