If you want to practice good oral hygiene, you must brush twice a day, floss once a day, and see your dentist every six months. However, more than half of Americans don’t floss regularly, and about 20% don’t floss at all.
Flossing the only consistent way to clean between your teeth in the areas a toothbrush can’t reach. Here at Capital Dental Group, we understand the importance of both traditional floss and water flossers to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here’s what you need to know about how to effectively use these tools:
Traditional Flossing Technique
Using traditional string floss is one of the best ways to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Cut about 18–24 inches of floss and wind most of it around each of your middle fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches to work with. Hold the floss taut between your thumb and index fingers, slide it gently up and down between your teeth. You then curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go all the way down to the gumline. Use clean sections of your floss as you move from tooth to tooth to avoid reinserting bacteria you have just removed.
Using Water Flossers
Water flossers use a stream of pulsating water to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and below the gumline. They’re particularly beneficial for people with braces or other types of dental work that make traditional flossing difficult.
Pros:
- Easy to use, especially for those with limited dexterity.
- Less abrasive on the gums, reducing the risk of bleeding.
- Can be more effective in cleaning around braces, bridges, and implants.
Cons:
- More expensive than traditional floss.
- Requires access to electricity and water.
- Not as portable as string floss.
Technique for Water Flossing
To use a water flosser effectively, fill the reservoir with warm water and insert the tip handle. Lean over the sink and place the tip in your mouth. Close your lips enough to prevent splashing but allows the water to flow from your mouth to the sink. Turn on the device and begin with the lowest pressure setting, gradually increasing it as needed. Aim the water stream at your gumline and move from the back of your mouth to the front, making sure to clean between each tooth.
Choosing the Right Tool for You
Traditional floss and water flosses are both equally valid ways to do the same job. Your choice of method will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and the condition of your gums and teeth. But remember that using some type of floss is a critical component of oral hygiene that mustn’t be overlooked.
Even if you are diligent with brushing and flossing every day, you should still visit your dentist. At Capital Dental Group, we’re dedicated to providing you with personalized dental care and are open seven days a week. Give us a call at 661-861-8000 to schedule an appointment today!