Choosing The Right Dental Tooth Floss – Everything You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered why dentists stress so much about flossing? Isn’t brushing one’s teeth twice a day not enough?  If you’re searching for answers to these questions, then you have come to the right place. This blog explains why it is important to floss every day and how it can help you maintain optimal oral health and physical well-being. 

What Is Flossing?

Dental flossing is a process in which one uses a thread or a filament to remove plaque and food debris from the tight spaces between the teeth. Flossing may seem like an insignificant measure. But in reality, it is very helpful in preventing various dental complications such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. This is why the American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day. 

Why Do Dentists Say That Flossing Is Important?

While brushing one’s teeth is an effective oral hygiene measure, it is insufficient to keep teeth clean and prevent dental complications. This is because the bristles of a toothbrush are unable to penetrate the tight spaces between the teeth, the so-called interdental spaces. Therefore, to ensure optimal cleaning of these spaces, dentists recommend using floss. 

Can I Use A Thread As A Flossing Material?

It is technically possible to use a sewing thread for flossing. However, this practice is not recommended. A sewing thread is very rough and may injure the gums. The dentist-recommended floss is carefully designed to optimise dental cleaning while ensuring that the oral soft tissues aren’t damaged. Therefore, one should avoid using a sewing thread for interdental teeth cleaning. 

Does A Toothpick Do The Same Job As Flossing?

Many people believe that a toothpick does the same job as a floss. However, this isn’t true. Although a toothpick is designed to remove stuck food objects from gaps between your teeth, it shouldn’t be used for interdental cleaning. This is because a toothpick can damage the gums. 

How Long Should You Floss For?

One doesn’t have to spend a lot of time on flossing to ensure optimal oral hygiene. One should typically spend 1 – 2 minutes flossing every day. One should aim to spend 10 – 15 seconds cleaning interdental spaces with a floss. 

Do You Brush Or Floss First? Does It Matter?

If you’re confused about whether you should brush or floss first, then here is the answer. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, recent research suggests that flossing should precede brushing one’s teeth. This approach is more effective at removing plaque from the teeth, thereby minimising the risk of dental complications such as gum disease and tooth decay. 

How To Floss With Braces?

Did you know that it is even more crucial to floss daily when one is wearing braces? This is because individuals who wear braces are more likely to develop plaque deposits on their teeth. If you’re wearing orthodontic braces, you can still floss your teeth. But you must ensure that you don’t dislodge your orthodontic brackets during the process. Many dental manufacturers have also made customised flosses which can be used conveniently while wearing braces. 

Does Flossing Eventually Make Teeth Loosen?

It is a common misconception among people that flossing makes teeth fall out. This is not correct. The fact is that flossing helps improve one’s oral hygiene by removing plaque deposits. Therefore, flossing helps make teeth strong and disease-free, instead of making them loose. 

Can Dental Floss Be Reused? Why?

If you think that dental floss can be reused, think again! When we clean our teeth using floss, food and bacterial debris get attached to it. So, if you reuse it for cleaning,  you are reintroducing bacteria into your interdental spaces and inviting infection! This is why dental floss is disposable, and we should always use a fresh thread whenever we floss, to prevent complications such as gum disease and dental cavities.

Should I Be Worried If My Tooth Chipped Just From Flossing?

Many people complain of their teeth chipping while flossing. This chipping doesn’t occur because of the floss. Instead, the tooth was already cracked, and when the floss got stuck in it, the upward pressure generated while removing the floss caused it to break into pieces. You should be worried in this case, as you are not maintaining optimal cleaning between your teeth gaps. You may also consider using a water flosser if you don’t wish to use floss for interdental cleaning. 

What Is The Best Time Of Day To Floss Your Teeth?

The best day to floss is when it is convenient for you. The more important thing is to ensure that you floss at least once a day. Whether you are flossing in the day or before bed, you should use proper technique to avoid damaging your oral soft tissues. You should also visit your dentist regularly for checkups so that they can identify any underlying dental health issues and treat them before they become bigger and require expensive treatment. 

If you’re looking for a reliable and renowned dental practice in Surrey for your family’s dental needs, then your best option is Horsley Dental. We have a team of highly qualified dentists who are trained to provide all types of dental services under one roof. We also have cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to ensure that you receive the best dental care in town. So, book a free consultation with us today and let us take care of your family’s dental needs.