Helpful Tips for Flossing

Helpful Tips for Flossing

Flossing. We all know it’s important, yet so few of us actually do it. Flossing often seems like so little a task that its contribution to oral health is often overlooked. However, flossing is actually a critical part of not just our dental health, but our overall health, as flossing has recently been linked to the prevention of diseases like diabetes. Floss is able to fit into the tiny crevices that your toothbrush can’t reach between teeth, and not flossing can lead to periodontal disease or bad breath. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of the correct way to floss, and may actually be doing more harm than good.

Facts About Flossing

1. Only about half of the American population claim to floss daily. In addition, 18.5% were found not to floss at all.

2. 73% of people say they would rather go grocery shopping than floss

3. Women are more likely to floss than men

4. People aged 31-60 are more likely to floss than other age groups

5. Approximately 40% of individuals who floss are flossing incorrectly

The Right Way to Floss

When most people floss, they thread the floss through their teeth and then “saw” back and forth. This technique is actually harmful as it can abrade the tooth. Continually flossing in this manner could ultimately result in creating a groove in the tooth.

The correct way to floss is to start at the top of the tooth near the gum line, and bring the floss down. Then, move onto a clean part of the floss and go to the next tooth. You don’t want to use the same part of the floss, because after one use, it is covered with plaque. Reusing it would just be adding to the bacteria that is already there.

You also want to be careful not to floss too aggressively, or you could cut into your gums and cause bleeding. Flossing once a day is plenty, and it is recommended that you floss at night. Flossing at night is more effective in the prevention of tooth decay or gum disease; otherwise, the bacteria would be sitting in your mouth overnight.

Choosing Floss

There are many different options for floss. Experts recommend sticking with regular dental floss, as opposed to harps or water picks. Those are often easier, but regular floss is the most effective.

If you have bridges or wide spaces between your teeth, wide floss or dental tape may be a better choice. As far as waxed versus unwaxed, or ribbon versus string, it is really more a matter of preference rather than effectiveness. Waxed floss slides between teeth easier, while unwaxed squeaks when your teeth are clean so you always know you’ve done a good job. Ribbon has a larger surface area than string, and string can sometimes cut your fingers if you’re not careful. All are effective – the choice is up to you.

Flossing is a critical part of oral hygiene; however, flossing should not be used instead of brushing. Flossing works best in addition to brushing for a bacteria-free mouth. Your teeth are not fully cleaned until you floss, so be sure to floss at least once a day to ensure a healthy smile.