Most patients are tired of hearing their dentists’ reminders to floss. However, there’s a good reason for dental care experts to reinforce the importance of this step. There is no better way to clean the spaces between your teeth.
The Benefits of Flossing
Experts from the Australian and American Dental Associations agree that flossing is crucial to halting gum disease. While a toothbrush effectively removes much of the plaque on the surface of the teeth, the bristles don’t reach between the teeth. If left in place, that plaque can harden into tartar.
Also, patients who properly floss do more than simply ward off tooth decay. They also:
- Reduce food particles that feed cavity-causing bacteria
- Prevent gum disease
- Might shore up their cardiovascular health by reducing the overall bacterial load in their bodies
Which Floss Should Patients Use?
There is little difference in the effectiveness of plain and waxed floss. However, waxed versions might slide into tight interdental spaces a little more easily. Dental tape might prove better for patients with large gaps between their teeth.
Most importantly, patients should use whichever floss they find most comfortable.
What If Patients Don’t Like Floss?
Not everyone is comfortable winding the string between their teeth. Other patients find it difficult or uncomfortable to hold the floss. These patients might prefer the following alternatives:
- Interdental brushes
- Air flossers
- Water flossers
Patients with braces or bridges can use a floss threader, which looks like a plastic sewing needle, to help get the floss between wires and hard-to-reach spaces.
Do You Need to Brush Up on Flossing?
Make an appointment with one of our friendly dentists to review your flossing technique and choose the right floss. Call Coast Family Dental in Currimundi today on (07) 5437 9000 or use our convenient online booking service.
