Whether you use string floss or floss picks, flossing should always be a part of your daily oral care routine. It helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay, and even helps your breath smell better. Here’s why flossing your teeth is so important, and how to pick the right type of dental floss for your teeth.
Three Advantages of Daily Flossing
- The most common place for cavities to form is between the teeth, where bacteria and other food particles can get stuck. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and below the gumline, which helps prevent gingivitis and reduces your risk of cavities.
- Flossing also helps fight bad breath. Bacteria and decaying food particles are a common reason for halitosis—by removing them you can stop bad breath before it starts.
- Even the fanciest toothbrushes cannot reach between your teeth or below the gumline. You need to floss every day to get rid of all the things that your toothbrush misses.
Three Flossing Tips from Our Dentists
- Floss at least once a day. We suggest flossing after brushing, so you can get rid of everything the toothbrush left behind. After flossing, use a mouth rinse to wash away any remaining debris.
- Be sure to floss between all of your teeth, as well as behind the back molars.
- Take it slow, and be gentle. Never snap the floss into your gums. Although bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, bleeding can also mean you are flossing too hard.
How to Pick the Right Type of Dental Floss
Choosing the right floss is a good way to ensure that your flossing efforts are effective. The best floss is always whichever one you will actually use, so we encourage you to try several types until you find one that fits your vibe.
String Floss
This is the most common type of floss and the one you might be most familiar with. They can come waxed, woven, and even flavored. Choosing the right one is a matter of preference.
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Waxed vs. Unwaxed
Both waxed and unwaxed versions are fine for those whose teeth fit closely together. We prefer the waxed version, as it typically glides between the teeth more easily, and its slightly sticky nature can pick up more particles. However, unwaxed floss is thinner than its waxed counterpart, and can fit more easily between tight teeth.
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Flavored vs. Unflavored
This is entirely a personal preference—some people love mint flavored floss for fresher breath, while others find the taste overwhelming. Flavored floss can also help convince children to floss their teeth.
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Woven or Braided
These sponge-like floss tapes are good for people with larger spaces between their teeth. They will find this is the best type of floss for ensuring particles are picked up and your teeth are clean.
Floss Picks
These dental tools are good for on the go, or if you have permanent dental fixtures. Since they are small they are perfect for getting around braces or dental bridges, and they fit perfectly in a bag or pocket for fighting plaque from anywhere. Some come in flavored versions or even fun shapes to make flossing fun for the whole family.
Dental Cleanings Make Flossing Easier
Flossing and brushing on their own are not enough to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. You also need twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings to ensure your teeth stay squeaky clean and healthy. Dental cleanings are the only way to remove tartar, and regular checkups will help to prevent small problems from getting worse.
Our dedicated dentists, Dr. Paul Whitney and Dr. Mikaela Weedman, are here to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. If it’s been a while since your last exam, contact Country Club Dental in Flagstaff to make an appointment today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/18/24). Photo by Sora Shimazaki.
