All You Must Know About Flossing Regularly For Maintenance of Proper Oral Hygiene
Time and again you may hear that flossing is critical for maintaining healthy teeth but do you really floss your teeth regularly? The answer may not be in the affirmative because most people feel that flossing is just another waste of time and skipping it does not really make much of a difference.
But that is only a misconception; flossing is what keeps your gums healthy and prevents bacteria buildup in the spaces between the teeth. Here are 5 tips that will make flossing easier and more convenient to do on a daily basis.
Flossing Is Beneficial As You Age
The gums become more susceptible to infections and bacteria as you grow older. The plaque causing bacteria eventually robs one off their youthful smile since the bacteria constantly eats away at the gums. Flossing regularly after meals not only protects your teeth from cavities and plaque but also preserves the bone that supports your teeth so you look better as you age.
Picking the Right Floss
Dental floss is usually made from Teflon or nylon and both work just fine. However, people sometimes have a slightly wider gap between their teeth or have the roots of their teeth exposed. Flat dental tape is recommended for people with gum recession since it is wider and cleans the spaces between the teeth efficiently.
On the other hand, if the gap between your teeth is not too wide, thin floss is ideal because it is made from a special material that is shred resistant. However, if you have had braces or bridges fitted, then it is important to use floss with a defter touch such as floss threaded so that it is resilient enough to get under wires and restorations between the teeth.
Another type of floss called super floss is also a preferable option for people with braces and bridges. It has a stiff end to get the floss between the teeth and then followed by regular floss with spongy segments for normal flossing.
Do not Worry about the Bleeding
Those who do not floss regularly often worry when their gums bleed. This is quite normal and it happens because of the plaque buildup that has built up in spaces between the teeth. Do not let bleeding deter you from flossing regularly because as you start flossing on a daily basis after meals, you will get used to it and the bleeding will stop on its own.
Master the Flossing Technique
The ideal way to floss properly is to use a piece of floss that is at least 15-18 inches long. Slide the floss in between the gaps of your teeth and then start polishing the teeth in the shape of ‘C’ and go about in an up and down motion. Remember to floss gently with a slight pressure to minimize discomfort for the first few times.
The Easy Way to Floss
Lack of dexterity is not an excuse for not flossing anymore. A wooden plaque remover will help you clean between the teeth with one hand easily. You can even use a two pronged plastic floss holder to do the trick if you cannot floss properly due to lack of dexterity.
These are some tips that will help you floss your teeth in the right way with no discomfort. We would love to hear what you have to say about oral hygiene. Leave your comments below.
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