We’ve all heard the dentist’s familiar refrain during our checkups: “You only need to floss the teeth you want to keep.” While often delivered as a lighthearted joke, it underscores a crucial aspect of oral hygiene. While brushing is essential, it cannot reach all the surfaces of your teeth, especially the areas between them. This is where dental floss becomes indispensable.
Think of your teeth as boxes nestled closely together. A toothbrush effectively cleans the exposed sides, but it struggles to reach the surfaces where the teeth meet. These interproximal areas, along with the spaces below the gum line, become havens for trapped food particles and plaque, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and potential cavities.
Daily flossing removes plaque buildup before it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning. Flossing not only promotes healthier teeth and gums but also combats bad breath by eliminating the source of odor-causing bacteria.
Dental floss is typically composed of nylon or other synthetic materials and comes in various forms: waxed, unwaxed, flat, round, and textured. Some flosses are infused with baking soda or fluoride, and floss holders are available for those who find manual flossing challenging. These products can be easily found at most drugstores and supermarkets.
When choosing floss, select one that you find comfortable and easy to use. Mint-flavored waxed floss is a popular choice for its ease of use and refreshing taste. To begin, dispense about two feet of floss from the container. Wrap one end of the floss securely around your index finger, ensuring it won’t slip. Then, wrap the other end around your opposite index finger, leaving about one to two inches of floss between your fingers.
Gently guide the floss between two teeth, using a sawing motion if needed. Once the floss is between your teeth, curve it around one tooth and slide it gently up and down, reaching just below the gum line. Repeat this process on the adjacent tooth. Be sure to use a clean section of floss for each tooth. You may feel a slight tug or snap as the floss removes plaque and debris. This is normal.
With consistent practice, flossing should not cause your gums to bleed. However, if you are new to flossing or have inflamed gums, you may experience some initial bleeding. This should subside as your gums become healthier. If bleeding persists, consult your dentist.
Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and a bright, confident smile. Make it a daily habit, and your teeth will thank you.