Flossing is a crucial part of dental care and often overlooked. It’s important to understand just how essential daily flossing is for a healthy smile. Since dentists receive various questions from patients on this topic, below are helpful answers to ensure you take care of your teeth and gums.

Answers to Common Questions About Flossing

Why is flossing so important?

A toothbrush can’t reach the tight crevices between your teeth where plaque forms and causes tooth decay. It may also harden into tartar and build up below the gum line, which leads to periodontal disease. This condition involves severe gum tissue infections and tooth loss.

Flossing is the only way to remove plaque from between teeth and along the gum line. It also dislodges trapped food that can contribute to tooth decay and cavities.

What kind of floss should I use?

Unwaxed floss, woven floss, and shred-resistant floss are the most popular products, and research has shown that they’re equally effective. Wax floss is easier to slide between teeth and expands to capture more plaque, while dental tape cleans large gaps between teeth easily.

You can also purchase mint-flavored floss to freshen your breath. Just make sure you’re choosing American Dental Associate-approved products that are safe for your mouth.

How do I floss correctly?

Wrap 18-24 inches of floss around your thumb and index finger on your dominant hand. Pull the floss taut and wiggle it between two teeth. Draw it forward to form a C-shape around the tooth and move it up and down. Do the same to the next tooth, making sure to go all the way down to the gum line. Move on to the next crevice until you’ve cleaned between each tooth.

Are there alternatives?

There are many other products if flossing is too cumbersome. Dental picks hold a single piece of floss on the end of a wand and are easy to maneuver around the mouth. Water-jet flossers blast a water jet between teeth to clear plaque. These are ideal for small children, people with arthritis or health issues that make handling floss difficult, or those that simply find string floss too tiring.

You need to see the dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning. If you’re overdue, contact Diane M. Evans, DDS of Rush, NY. This dental care professional provides preventive and cosmetic dentistry solutions in a welcoming setting. Dr. Evans will create a custom treatment plan based on your oral health and provides solutions like teeth whitening so you achieve a healthy smile. Call (585) 321-1460 to schedule an exam or visit their website to learn more about the practice.