A floss pick is a small, handheld device consisting of a plastic handle and a short strand of dental floss stretched tautly between two prongs. Many people choose this tool because its design offers a significant level of convenience and makes it easier to access the tight spaces between teeth, especially the molars in the back of the mouth. This compact format is often preferred by those who find manipulating a long string of traditional floss challenging. Understanding the correct mechanical technique is necessary to ensure that this convenient tool effectively removes plaque and debris.
Essential Flossing Technique
To begin, hold the floss pick firmly by the handle, ensuring a controlled grip for precise movements inside the mouth. Gently guide the floss segment between two adjacent teeth using a soft, back-and-forth motion, being careful not to snap the floss forcefully against the gum tissue. Once the floss reaches the gum line, you must consciously maneuver the pick to wrap the floss into a “C” shape around the base of one tooth. This wrapping action is critical because it allows the floss to conform to the tooth’s curved surface and slip slightly beneath the gum margin.
With the floss secured in the “C” shape, move the pick gently up and down along the side of the tooth, scraping away plaque. Perform this scraping motion approximately eight to ten times on the first tooth before repeating the entire process on the adjacent tooth surface. The goal is to clean both sides of the interdental space, not just the contact point where the teeth touch. After cleaning a section, rinse the floss segment on the pick under water to clear away the dislodged plaque and bacteria before moving to the next pair of teeth.
Key Tips for Maximum Cleanliness
Flossing should be performed at least once daily to disrupt the formation of bacterial colonies that lead to decay and gum irritation. A common mistake is applying too much pressure or forcing the floss into the space, which can damage the delicate gingival tissue. Instead, always prioritize a gentle, controlled motion to slide the floss into position, protecting the gums from unnecessary injury. Reaching the back teeth requires angling the handle correctly to ensure the floss is placed against the furthest surfaces of the molars, which are frequently missed.
Floss picks are designed for single use, and discarding them after one session is strongly advised due to hygiene concerns. Reusing a pick means reintroducing bacteria and food particles collected from the first cleaning back into the mouth. Furthermore, the floss material on the pick can fray or weaken after a single use, reducing its effectiveness in removing plaque during subsequent attempts. Proper disposal after each use maintains the integrity of your cleaning routine and minimizes the risk of oral contamination.
Choosing Floss Picks Over Traditional String
Floss picks offer distinct benefits that make them a preferred choice for certain users. The pre-threaded design is particularly helpful for individuals with limited dexterity, such as those with arthritis, or for younger users who struggle with the traditional string-wrapping technique. Their compact size also makes them highly portable, facilitating flossing on the go, such as after meals outside the home. The plastic handle offers a simple way to reach the posterior teeth that can be difficult to access with fingers alone.
However, the fixed, short length of the floss on the pick presents a limitation compared to traditional string floss. It can be more challenging to achieve the complete “C” shape wrap around the entire circumference of the tooth base with a pick, potentially leading to less comprehensive plaque removal.
The single-use nature of most floss picks also creates a greater volume of plastic waste compared to traditional string floss, which is a consideration for environmentally conscious users. Ultimately, the best tool is the one that an individual will use consistently and correctly.