Using dental floss is one of the most important elements of oral hygiene. Here, our Calgary dentists explain the importance of flossing, and the difference between regular floss and floss picks.
Whether you feel it or not, food particles, bacteria and plaque gets stuck between your teeth.
Because your toothbrush isn't able to thoroughly clean between the teeth, floss is important in removing build up and preventing issues like cavities and gum disease.
There are many types of floss. Regular floss and floss picks are the most common. Here, our Calgary dentists shed some light on these two methods of this important oral hygiene practice.
Regular Floss
Whether it's waxed or unwaxed, the effectiveness of a traditional spool of dental floss is determined by your flossing technique.
To start, you should gather about 18 inches of floss and wind it around your fingers. Then, slide the floss gently up and down between your teeth. Move the floss in a “C” shape around each tooth, and be sure to go below your gum line.
With the right technique, regular floss is great at removing bacteria between your teeth, where toothbrush bristles can’t reach.
Floss Picks
Floss picks hold the floss for you, so you only have to use one hand. While this may be convenient, floss picks are not as effective as regular floss.
Floss picks do not allow you to reach all the angles that regular floss can so you won’t be able to clean your teeth as effectively.
Regular floss is recommended, but floss picks are better than nothing for your oral health.
When to Floss
Flossing too much can be a problem. You can end up with irritation and tender gums.
To avoid this, it is recommended that flossing is done only once a day (alongside brushing which should be done at least twice a day).