Dental plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms on teeth, harboring bacteria that can lead to various dental issues. Understanding flossing’s effectiveness in managing plaque buildup is key to maintaining good oral hygiene. This article explores what dental plaque is, how flossing works to remove it, proper flossing techniques, and other important oral care practices.
Understanding Dental Plaque
Dental plaque is a soft, sticky, and typically colorless film composed of microorganisms that continuously forms on tooth surfaces. It is primarily a biofilm of bacteria. This biofilm adheres to the teeth, especially along the gumline, between teeth, and on chewing surfaces.
If left undisturbed, plaque can harden into tartar, or dental calculus, which is more difficult to remove and often appears brown or pale yellow. The bacteria within plaque metabolize sugars from food, producing acids that demineralize tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Plaque accumulation also causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), which can progress to more severe periodontal diseases if not addressed.
The Mechanism of Flossing for Plaque Removal
Flossing works by physically dislodging and scraping away plaque from tooth surfaces. It is particularly effective in reaching interdental spaces and just below the gumline, areas that a toothbrush often cannot access. Toothbrush bristles typically clean about 65% of the tooth surface, leaving the remaining areas susceptible to plaque accumulation.
The mechanical action of the floss disrupts the sticky matrix that encapsulates the bacteria within the plaque, preventing it from maturing and causing harm. This disruption also helps remove bacteria that contribute to bad breath and gum irritation. This disruption is crucial because plaque can begin to harden into tartar within 24 to 72 hours, which then requires professional cleaning for removal. Flossing before brushing can also be more effective at removing plaque between teeth and maintaining fluoride concentration on enamel.
Proper Flossing Techniques
Proper flossing ensures thorough plaque removal. Begin with approximately 18 inches of dental floss, wrapping most of it around your middle fingers and leaving a few inches taut between your thumbs and index fingers for control. Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a subtle sawing motion to navigate past the contact points.
Once the floss reaches the gumline, curve it into a “C” shape against one side of the tooth. This “C” shape allows the floss to hug the contour of the tooth, enabling it to clean not only between the teeth but also slightly below the gumline. Move the floss gently up and down along the side of the tooth, scraping away plaque. Repeat this action on the adjacent tooth using a clean section of floss. Flossing once daily is widely recommended by dental professionals to prevent plaque buildup and promote gum health.
Complementary Oral Care Practices
Flossing is an important component of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine, but it functions best when combined with other practices. Brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential for cleaning the visible surfaces of teeth and disrupting plaque across the mouth. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and interferes with acid production by plaque bacteria.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important for maintaining oral health. Dentists can remove hardened plaque (tartar) that cannot be eliminated through at-home brushing and flossing, and they can identify and address potential issues early. Incorporating antimicrobial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria and provide additional protection against plaque buildup, though it should supplement, not replace, brushing and flossing.