The correct way of Flossing

Interdental cleaning aids are adjunctive devices which enhance the maintenance of good oral hygiene for eg: flossing, mouthwash, tongue scraping etc.

Flossing is a method of interdental cleaning to remove any plaque or food debris from the interproximal or embrasures of teeth. Flossing is beneficial in maintaining good oral hygiene and it is highly recommended in certain conditions like – open contact between teeth and during orthodontic treatment.

For detailed information and instructions book and appointment with your nearby dentist in Seawoods.

How is flossing useful?

It helps remove adherent plaque and food debris from the interproximal regions of teeth and also under the crowns and bridges. Flossing leaves a smoother tooth surface which is less effective for bacterial adhesion.

It not only helps the teeth but also improves gingival health due to its massaging during flossing.

Dental floss may be available in various forms:

• Multifilament – twisted / non-twisted
• Bonded / non bonded
• Thick/thin
• Waxed / non waxed

The degree of plaque control achieved by any type of floss is similar. However, the choice of the type of floss is an individual preference. Bonded floss keeps the fibres intact when used on a tooth surface. The fibres may or may not be wax coated.

The unwaxed dental floss is better than the waxed for the following reasons:

• 1. It is smaller in diameter and passes more easily through tight interproximal contacts.
• 2. The unwaxed dental floss flattens on the tooth surface under tension and works more effectively as a cleaning tool.
• 3. Your tooth performance can be monitored by running the unwaxed floss on the teeth. Clean teeth will give away a squeaking noise and unclean won’t.

Techniques of dental flossing :

There are two methods for holding the floss

THE SPOOL METHOD

In this method, 12 -18 inches floss is cut and around 4 inches from each end is wound around the middle finger of each hand. Last three fingers of both hands are folded and closed and both the hands are moved apart. Therefore leaving one to two inches of workable floss between both hands.

CIRCLE or LOOP METHOD:

In this method, a 12-18 inches long piece of floss is made into a loop or circle and both ends are tied with three knots. Then, all the fingers except the thumbs are placed within the loop and the floss is held tightly by both the hands leaving 1-2 inches of floss between fingers as the workable area.

For a patient who is unable to do this manually or having less dexterity, floss holders can also be used for holding the floss. Powered flossing devices are also available which moves the prestrung floss in short motions.

The floss is then passed through the gaps in between the teeth in a back and forth motion. The floss is moved around at different angles exploring the gaps, tooth surfaces as well as the interdental gingiva. This way it ensures all the teeth are thoroughly covered.

For all your dental needs, we are one of the Best Dentist in Seawoods. Call us to book an appointment.