Flossing is an important habit that helps keep oral health issues at bay.  

It’s no secret that flossing is an important step in any good oral hygiene routine. By flossing daily, it’s possible to remove food particles, plaque, and other debris from between the teeth and along the gum line. This, in turn, reduces the risk of gingivitis and tooth decay, as well as bad breath. So, when it comes to choosing a flossing technique, which approach is best? Traditional flossing is generally recommended as the most effective method, but water flossing is often a suitable alternative for people with braces, as well as those who struggle with flossing. Read on to find out more about how traditional and water flossing differ, and which method is best for you…

How to floss with dental floss

When it comes to maintaining optimal oral health in the long term, there is simply no substitute for good hygiene habits. Flossing is a key step in any proper oral hygiene regime as it helps to get rid of food particles, plaque, and other debris from between the teeth and along the gum line. When plaque is left to accumulate, it can harden into tartar, which then contributes to many issues. These include gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay.

To floss effectively, you should use a piece of dental floss that is around 40 centimetres long. Wrap the floss around each of your middle fingers, leaving around five centimetres for flossing. Hold the floss firmly between your index fingers and thumbs and move it in an up-and-down motion between each of your teeth. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.

How does water flossing work? 

Although traditional flossing is generally considered the most effective method when it comes to cleaning in between the teeth, water flossing is often a suitable option for individuals who find it difficult to floss their teeth with dental floss. People with braces, for example, may find it easier to use a water flosser during the course of their orthodontic treatment. Also, people with disabilities that make it difficult to hold dental floss are likely to benefit from water flossing.

Water flossing involves the use of a special, hand-held device that delivers a steady stream of water to remove debris from between the teeth. The device, also known as an oral irrigator or dental water jet, can also effectively remove plaque from the teeth and gums.

Why is it important to floss?

Flossing is the most effective way to remove plaque from around and in between your teeth and along the gum line. By removing plaque, you remove the harmful acids that contribute to the development of tooth decay, as well as gum disease.

Flossing also helps to keep bad breath at bay. When food particles get stuck between the teeth, it slowly decays — if left unremoved, this can cause a foul-smelling odour. Gum disease and cavities can also contribute to bad breath.

Ideally, you should floss at least once a day before you brush your teeth. This will help to loosen food particles and plaque before you remove them with your toothbrush.

How can we help?

At Beenleigh Marketplace Dental, we care about our patients’ oral health. We encourage all of our patients to practice good oral hygiene habits and to come in and see us for regular check-ups and professional cleans. If you have a question about your oral health and hygiene habits, please don’t hesitate to chat with our friendly team.

We also offer a comprehensive range of dental services — to see our full scope of treatments, please have a look here.

If you would like to arrange a consultation with us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here or give us a call at (07) 3801 8799.