Flossers are specialized tools designed to simplify the process of interdental cleaning, which is the removal of plaque and food debris from the spaces between teeth and beneath the gumline. This practice is necessary because toothbrush bristles cannot effectively reach the approximately 35% of tooth surfaces located interproximally. The popularity of flossers has surged because they offer a more accessible and convenient alternative to traditional string floss, especially for individuals who have dexterity challenges or dental work. They encourage a more consistent daily habit, which prevents the progression of plaque into hard calculus deposits.
Understanding the Different Types of Flossers
The term “flosser” generally refers to two distinct categories of interdental cleaning devices that utilize mechanical action to disrupt plaque. The first type is the manual or disposable floss pick, which features a plastic or biodegradable handle with a small segment of floss tensioned between two prongs. These picks are highly portable and are often shaped like an “F” for the front teeth, or sometimes a “Y” to better access the posterior molars.
The second category encompasses powered devices known as water flossers or oral irrigators. These units employ a pump to generate a highly focused, pulsating stream of water or air. The mechanical force of the water jet is directed along the gumline and between teeth to flush away loose debris, bacteria, and non-adherent plaque. While manual picks rely on physically scraping the tooth surface, water flossers use irrigation to clean and stimulate the gum tissue.
Step-by-Step Guide for Manual Floss Picks
Start by firmly grasping the floss pick between your thumb and index finger, ensuring you have a steady and controlled hold on the handle. To insert the floss into the space between two teeth, use a gentle back-and-forth or sawing motion. Take care not to snap the floss forcefully against the gums, as aggressive insertion can cause trauma, irritation, or bleeding of the gingival tissue.
Once the floss passes the contact point, wrap it around the side of one tooth, pulling it into a curved “C” shape that conforms to the tooth’s surface. Gently slide the floss up and down the side of the tooth, extending the movement slightly below the gumline by about two to three millimeters. This motion physically scrapes away the sticky plaque film from below the gingival margin.
After cleaning the first tooth surface, repeat the “C” shape technique on the adjacent tooth surface before carefully removing the pick with the same controlled sawing motion. Many floss picks also feature a pointed end on the handle, which can be used to dislodge larger food particles. Use a new pick segment for each interdental space to avoid transferring bacteria throughout the mouth.
Operating Water Flossers and Oral Irrigators
Before operating a water flosser, fill the reservoir with lukewarm water, as this temperature is more comfortable for the gums and teeth than cold water. Select a pressure setting, always beginning with the lowest level and gradually increasing it only until a comfortable yet effective pressure is reached. Using excessive pressure can potentially damage the gum tissue.
Place the flosser tip inside your mouth before turning the unit on, then lean over the sink to allow the water to drain out during use. Position the tip at a 90-degree angle to the gumline, aiming the stream precisely where the tooth meets the gum. Do not aim the jet directly into the gum pocket, but rather along the gumline.
Methodically trace the gumline, pausing briefly between each tooth to allow the pulsating stream to irrigate the space thoroughly. It is important to clean both the front and back surfaces of the teeth in a continuous path to ensure complete coverage. Maintaining the correct angle and a slow, steady pace allows the water to effectively flush out debris from interdental areas and periodontal pockets.
Essential Flossing Habits and Common Mistakes
For optimal oral health, flossing with a manual pick or a water flosser should be performed at least once every day. This daily consistency is paramount for disrupting the bacterial colonies that constantly form on the tooth surface and along the gumline. While the timing is flexible, many professionals recommend flossing before brushing, as this removes trapped debris and allows the fluoride from toothpaste to better penetrate between the teeth.
A frequent mistake when using manual picks is being too aggressive and snapping the floss down, which can injure the gums and cause recession over time. Another common error is failing to curve the floss into the “C” shape, which means the sides of the teeth are not properly cleaned. Manual floss picks should also be discarded after a single use to prevent the reintroduction of bacteria.
For water flosser users, a mistake is running the device on a pressure setting that is too high, which can cause discomfort or gum irritation. Similarly, aiming the water jet incorrectly, such as directly into the gingiva instead of along the gumline, reduces cleaning effectiveness. Regularly emptying and rinsing the water flosser reservoir is necessary to prevent the growth of bacteria within the standing water.