Tips On Choosing the Best Product for Your Teeth
Flossing daily is one of the most beneficial habits for your teeth. It removes stray food particles, reduces the risk of gum inflammation, and cuts down on some (but not all) of the sticky residue on your teeth called plaque that attracts bacteria and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Despite the importance of flossing, an estimated 70% of people don’t floss daily.
If you’d like to improve your flossing habits, start with finding a dental floss that you like and that works well for your teeth. Keep reading for some tips on finding the right floss.
Unwaxed Dental Floss
This standard option is made of nylon. It fits well into tight spaces, making it a good option for people with narrowly spaced teeth. But it can be known to break or shred.
Waxed Dental Floss
This is standard nylon dental floss that comes with a light wax coating, which helps prevent breakage. However, it can be harder to use on tightly-spaced teeth.
Dental Tape
For widely spaced teeth, standard floss may not be effective in removing debris. Dental tape is flat and wide, so it’s a better choice for larger gaps between teeth.
Super Floss
This sturdier type of floss is also a good choice for people with widely spaced teeth, and its combination of different fibers is effective at removing food debris from braces or dental bridges.
Dental Floss Picks
A dental pick features a taut piece of floss strung between two plastic prongs. Dental picks are a good option for people with smaller mouths or anyone who has trouble reaching their back teeth. They’re also handy when you’re away from home – keep one with you, so you can floss whenever you need to.
Flavored Dental Floss
Floss made with a pleasant flavor like mint may encourage you or your kids to stick with the habit.
Electric Flossers
This higher-tech option may be a good choice for someone who has a hard time handling floss. But it should only be used by people with good fine motor control.
Taking Care of Your Teeth
Even if you’re a committed flosser, you won’t be able to get rid of all plaque buildup on your own, as it can accumulate beneath the gum line. Sticking to a schedule of regular dental cleanings is the only way to ensure plaque is removed before it can cause damage.
Are you due for a dental exam? We’re accepting new patients! Call us to schedule your appointment: (765) 643-535.
