The use of dental floss is very often addressed during visits to the dentist. Unfortunately, its consistent and habitual use often becomes rarer over time. However, it is very important to keep this habit that keeps your mouth and teeth healthy. The following article explains the different roles of dental floss in maintaining the balance of the mouth.
It is well known that to have beautiful healthy teeth, it is important to have good oral hygiene in addition to keeping good lifestyle habits, such as diet. Added to this are regular visits to the dentist and putting into practice the advice he gives you at your appointments, which includes the use of dental floss, ideally after every meal.
What is flossing for?
Flossing is used to remove bacteria and food debris that are present between teeth. Since a toothbrush can not go to such restricted areas, this debris and bacteria will remain in place if not removed with dental floss.
An essential to oral health
Oral health begins with a good deep cleansing to combat the formation of dental plaque. For this reason, it is important to understand that brushing your teeth, even if done properly and at least twice a day, is not enough to dislodge as many bacteria as possible from restricted spaces in your mouth.
By flossing just once a day, dental plaque will not have time to turn into tartar. Once the habit is taken care of, it becomes much easier to keep in mind and perform daily.
The Dental Clinic Dents Mon Quartier encourages its patients to floss at least once a day, following our directions on how to use it properly.
It is important to floss your teeth BEFORE brushing your teeth:
- Cut at least 30 cm of dental floss and hold it between index fingers and thumbs.
- Wrap it between the majors leaving at least 5 cm of wire between the hands.
- Slide the floss between the teeth and make a semicircle in the bottom of the tooth, on the gum.
- Clean both sides of the teeth, and do not forget the back of the molars.
- Repeat until there is nothing between the teeth.
And above all, do not forget:
- Go slowly so as not to hurt the gums;
- Use a new part of floss with each new tooth;
- It should all take about one minute;
- Brush your teeth in a normal way after this process.
Types of dental floss
There are several types of dental floss in the market, here are some that are popular;
- Materials: Polyethylene, Teflon, Nylon, sometimes waxed or not waxed
- Size: fine, extra fine, super silk
- Shape: round, flattened, ribbon, twisted, multifilament, absorbent elastic foam
- Flavor: fruits, mint, fluoride, baking soda
If you have questions about flossing in your daily routine, please talk to us at your next clinic appointment and we'll be happy to answer your questions!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D