Top Tips for Flossing

Flossing should always be incorporated into your daily oral care routine. But we know that sometimes, flossing can be tricky. That’s why we are sharing our favorite tips to help your flossing become easier and more effective.

Why should I floss?

You know brushing twice a day is important. But do you floss? And, no, twice a month doesn’t count. Here’s why you shouldn’t write off this essential step.

  • Plaque acts quickly.
    Skipping a few days allows bacteria the perfect amount of time to solidify. Plaque starts to harden within hours of eating, and once 48 hours have passed, the cavity-causing substance will be firmly stuck to your teeth.
  • Your gums will stop bleeding.
    Don’t want to floss because it leaves the thread bloody? Although it may seem counterintuitive, flossing actually reduces the occurrence of bleeding gums. If you remove bacteria from the gum line, your body won’t send blood cells to the area to fight the infection. Happy gums and happy you!
  • Your teeth will stay strong.
    What’s worse than getting a cavity? Getting a cavity in between two teeth. Remove bacterial buildup in those hard-to-reach areas, and you’ll save yourself the pain of going under the drill.

Top Flossing Techniques:

Interdental Brushes

Also called proxy brushes, an interdental brush is a small pointed brush attached to a handle that may allow you to clean between teeth when there is enough space. Using one is as easy as inserting the brush tip between the teeth.

Floss Picks

Floss picks are devices that can hold floss on a handle, which can be short or long like a toothbrush. These tools can make it easier to maneuver the floss between teeth and can be especially helpful if you’re receiving help with your flossing from a caregiver, or if you have a strong a gag reflex.

Water Flossers

Water flossers are a device that clean by flushing the gums with water, which is often easier to use than traditional floss.

Floss Threaders

Floss threaders are a flexible plastic or nylon loop that can be used to thread floss under fixed bridges. To use, thread the floss through the loop, then insert the threader between the gum and the bridge, pulling the floss with it.

Have questions about your flossing routine? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Antonio Lopez-Ibarra at Tri-City Dental Care in Kennewick WA by calling (509) 579-0759 or by emailing us at info@tricitydentalcarewa.com