The importance of flossing
Why should I floss?
Flossing should be a part of your dental hygiene routine, alongside normal brushing. Dentists recommend this for reaching smaller gaps between your teeth that a regular toothbrush can’t get to.
Food particles from meals or snacks throughout the day can reside in harder to reach places that require a smaller brush or string to reach, which is why flossing is essential. You could be leaving food to stick in your teeth without even knowing, if you don’t floss regularly.
Over time, this can build up and cause severe damage to your teeth and gums. This will lead to extensive, costly treatments in an attempt to restore your oral health.
What happens if I don't floss?
Not flossing means you allow hidden, left-over bacteria to build up in your mouth, which worsens over time. This can lead to early stages of gum disease- without this regular, more attentive cleaning, your gums can become swollen and red.
Make it a goal to floss daily, whether you decide it’s best to do it first thing in the morning or right before you sleep. This part of your routine is just as important as regular brushing for healthy teeth. It can contribute to preventing serious dental problems from arising in the future.
It’s vital to get into good habits as soon as possible with your dental routine. Flossing and thorough cleaning of your teeth daily only brings benefits- you’re much less likely to need future treatments or suffer from any debilitating dental issues. If you would like further advice on how best to floss and clean your teeth, speak to your dentist at your next check-up.
Interdental brushes vs. flossing string
Flossing is the more commonly-known way of cleaning between the teeth. Depending on whether you choose a floss pick or a roll, this method involves working a string between the teeth and gums. It has proved to be effective in removing plaque if done correctly, as it targets the gums and the build-up of bacteria surrounding them.
Interdental brushes are miniature brushes designed especially to reach the stubborn, hidden-away areas. The brush itself can be bent slightly to adjust in between your teeth and remove any particles residing there. It is usually recommended during orthodontic treatment like braces because these brushes are able to clean ‘blind spots’ normally missed.
Many choose to opt for this tried and trusted method of flossing as their way of ensuring squeaky-clean teeth. However, many opt for interdental brushes if their gaps aren’t as big, or if they don’t like the feeling of the string in their mouth. As long as they are used properly, it comes down to what your teeth are like and personal preference. Try traditional floss string, floss picks and interdental brushes to see which appliance suits your dental needs the most.
