THE IMPORTANCE OF FLOSSING

We get it! Flossing isn’t exactly the most enjoyable task, but it is very important for your oral health.

While daily brushing is essential, you are only cleaning approximately half the surface of your teeth, while the other half is hidden between the teeth.

By skipping this step in your daily oral hygiene routine, you are putting yourself at risk of gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis (“bad breath”) and no body wants any of those things (especially the bad breath!)

HOW TO FIX THIS ISSUE

Whether you are an early riser or a night owl, it is best to floss when you have the time to focus on getting the technique right. Fitting a few extra minutes into your oral hygiene routine either in the morning or at night will point you in the right direction for a healthy and happy mouth.

TECHNIQUE

Everyone starts somewhere, and with each floss, it will become easier and quicker to effectively remove any unwanted plaque/food from between the teeth. Follow these easy steps:

1.   Start by winding approximately 45cm of floss around your middle fingers, creating a tight and secure thread

2.   Using your thumb and index finger, guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle movement (it usually works best to start from the back teeth and work your way around, ensuring you don’t miss any gaps)

3.   Using an up and down motion, glide the floss, between the tooth and gum on either side of the gum

4.   Gentle lift the floss out and use a fresh section of the floss for the next gap

If you are still unsure, your dentist will happily demonstrate the correct technique at your next check-up appointment!

WHAT IF USING FLOSS IS TOO DIFFICULT?

Due to reasons such as poor hand/finger mobility, tight/wide gaps, orthodontic appliances (braces/wire), bridges, crowns or dental implants, there are options other than floss that is available to purchase at either your dental practice or pharmacy/supermarket.

These include:

- Interdental brushes: These often look like little bottlebrushes. They come in various sizes, depending on the gaps between your teeth (your dentist can advise which size is best) and are most beneficial for people with gum disease, braces, crowns and bridges, etc. They work by gently pushing the brush between the teeth at the gum line. They are often used in conjunction with flossing.

- Water flossers: This appliance works by spraying water in between the teeth, flushing away trapped food/plaque. It is easy to use and is suitable for all patients, especially patients with a lot of bridge work or orthodontic treatment.

- Floss picks: These little “c” shaped plastic picks have the floss fixed in place and are ideal for patients who find it tricky to floss with regular dental floss, making access easier.

- Superfloss: This kind of floss comes with a slightly thicker and sturdier plastic at one end and a spongy, stretchy like floss, designed to make it easier to thread the floss between gaps. This is ideal for patients with braces/metal wire or bridge work.

Before using any alternatives to floss, please contact your dentist to be advised on which option is best for you and how to use them correctly and effectively.

 Appointments are available at Dental4U, please call (03) 9687 7786 or book online www.dental4u.com.au