Dental flossing uses a filament to remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth and along the gumline. This practice is necessary because a toothbrush cannot effectively reach the surfaces where teeth meet. Ignoring these tight spaces allows plaque to collect and harden into tartar, significantly increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Many people find manipulating traditional string floss difficult or time-consuming, leading to inconsistent cleaning. Simplifying the process through the right tools and techniques makes daily flossing an effective part of a consistent oral health routine.
Exploring Alternative Flossing Tools
For individuals who struggle with the dexterity required for string floss, alternative devices offer easier handling. Floss picks are a popular option, featuring a small plastic handle that holds a short piece of floss taut between two prongs. This design makes them convenient for cleaning the back teeth and for users with limited hand mobility. While they sacrifice the deep cleaning ability of string floss, using a pick is better than skipping interdental cleaning entirely.
Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, use a pressurized stream of water to clean between teeth and slightly below the gumline. The water jet effectively dislodges food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. These devices are useful for people with orthodontics, such as braces, where wires and brackets create traps for debris that string floss struggles to navigate. Water flossers are also beneficial for cleaning around complex dental restorations like bridges and crowns.
Refining Technique for Traditional String Floss
For those who prefer the thorough cleaning provided by string floss, mastering a specific technique maximizes effectiveness. Start by tearing off a piece of floss about 18 inches long. Wrap the majority of the floss around your middle fingers, leaving a short, two-inch section taut between your index fingers and thumbs for control. Avoid forcefully snapping the floss into the gum tissue, which can cause trauma and irritation.
Gently saw the floss through the tight contact point between the teeth until it reaches the gumline. Once there, curve the floss into a “C” shape, wrapping it firmly against one side of the tooth. This “C” shape allows the floss to hug the tooth’s contour and reach the crevice just beneath the gumline. Slide the floss up and down the side of the tooth, gently scraping away the plaque before repeating the process on the adjacent tooth surface. Unroll a fresh section of floss for each new gap to avoid transferring bacteria and plaque around the mouth.
Integrating Flossing into Your Routine
Consistency is vital for an effective flossing routine, regardless of the tool or technique used. A simple way to build this habit is by “habit stacking,” which means linking flossing to an established daily activity. For example, floss immediately after brushing your teeth each night, making it a natural extension of your existing routine. Focus on making the process convenient by keeping your chosen flossing tools highly visible.
Keeping a water flosser on the bathroom counter or having portable floss picks available while watching television helps maintain visibility and convenience. Dental professionals often recommend a “floss first” approach, completing the interdental cleaning before brushing. Flossing first loosens and removes debris, allowing the fluoride in your toothpaste to reach and treat more cleaned surfaces for greater protection against cavities.