Everyone has been told by their dentist at least once in their life that they need to floss more. While flossing can seem like an annoying added step in your dental hygiene routine, it can help prevent a whole list of dental issues from cavities to gum disease. But did you know there are easier, more fun ways to floss your teeth than the standard dental floss?
Waterpik is the latest in flossing technology. Using a thin stream of water to clean between your teeth, you can get a fresh, clean smile without having to worry about the hassle that comes from traditional floss. While a bit on the expensive side, it’ll leave your teeth cleaner than ever, and the cavity prevention alone is worth every penny. Plus, you have to admit, the idea of flossing your teeth with water alone is pretty cool. Airfloss uses a similar idea but instead of a steady stream of water, Airfloss suspends tiny beads of water on a steady stream of air for compact, mess-free cleaning. While not as effective as Waterpik, this nifty flossing tool can take your oral hygiene to the next level.
Interdental flossers are like small, flexible toothbrushes that can clean inbetween your teeth. They are made to shape to the contours of your teeth, making them ideal for hard-to-reach spaces such as between your molars. Other forms of these include floss picks that help you keep your grip on the floss and can help you clean your teeth on the go. You can also get flavored floss if you don’t like mint.
Other fun flossing tools include habit-tracking apps and alarms that can help remind you when it’s time to floss and make flossing that much more fun. If you find yourself forgetting to floss on a daily basis, these can help you get into good dental hygiene habits.
Flossing Technique
Making sure to clean around each individual tooth, pay special attention to each side as you go. If you are using traditional floss, wrap the ends around your fingers to keep the floss taught. Working your way around your mouth, unravel clean lengths of floss as you go. If using a non-traditional flossing method, make sure to follow the instructions given and take your time. Flossing at least once a day can drastically decrease the number of food particles left on your teeth, which in turn affects the amount of plaque and tartar build up between your teeth. Tartar buildup contributes to the development of gum disease, as well as cavities and other oral health issues. Taking the time to properly care for your teeth can help keep your smile bright and healthy and prevent the need for more serious dental care down the road.
If you are looking for a dentist in Mount Pleasant, SC, feel free to contact our office. Here at Crossland Dental Associates, we are committed to keeping our patients happy and healthy and giving them the tools they need to care for their smile, no matter the age.
Source(s): https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/still-not-flossing-more-reasons-why-you-should#1 and https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/to-floss-or-not-to-floss#1 and https://www.brightnow.com/about-us/post/six-ways-to-improve-and-maybe-even-enjoy-flossing