A Complete Guide to Flossing Teeth

Do you floss your teeth regularly? You probably know how important flossing is for your oral health and wellness. But you may not floss as often as you should. Maybe you’re not sure how to floss properly or you’re finding it difficult to establish this practice as a part of your normal routine. 

This complete guide to flossing your teeth makes it easy to improve your oral hygiene regimen. 

Types of Floss 

There are a few different types of floss you can purchase: 

• Unwaxed floss. Basic string floss is made of nylon. It is the least expensive, but unwaxed floss can sometimes fray and tear more easily than other types. 
• Waxed floss. Waxed floss is reinforced with a layer of wax to prevent fraying and tearing. It is slightly thicker, making it more difficult to use in tight spaces between teeth. 
• Dental tape. Dental tape is wider and flat for the purpose of reaching larger spaces between teeth. It can be waxed or unwaxed. 
• Polytetrafluorethylene floss. This floss is made from gore-tex, making it less likely to tear and fray. 
• Super floss. Super floss is spongy and round with a reinforced end like a shoestring. It is ideal for flossing large spaces between teeth and reaching spaces around orthodontics and dental prosthetics. 

Proper Flossing Technique 

When it comes to using string floss, break off a piece that is about 24 inches long. Wrap it around both of your middle fingers until you have about an inch of floss suspended between them. Using your index fingers, guide the floss gently between each of your teeth. Wrap the floss slightly around each tooth to reach the pockets between the teeth and gums. Use a clean place on the floss between each tooth. 

Flossing Tools 

There are some additional flossing tools available that can make flossing easier: 

• Floss sticks or plackers. There are flossing tools made of plastic with a U-shaped head and a piece of floss stretched across it. These make it easier to slide the floss between each tooth, but may not be as effective as string floss at reaching the pockets between the teeth and gums. 
• Water flossers. A water flosser is an electronic flossing tool that pumps pressurized water through a wand with a pointed tip. As the water sprays between the teeth, food and plaque are removed. 

Flossing With Braces

If you have braces, there are ways to floss around them. Your orthodontist may provide you with a flossing needle, which is made of plastic and can be used to thread the floss under your archwire. Super floss has a reinforced end that can be used to thread the floss under your archwire.  

Flossing With Dental Prosthetics 

If you have a dental prosthetic, such as a bridge or fixed dentures, super floss or a water flosser can make it easier to clean underneath them. It is important to clean under and around dental prosthetics to remove plaque that can lead to gum disease and decay of the neighboring teeth. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Flossing

What does it mean if my gums bleed when I floss?

If you are flossing for the first time or if it has been a while since you have flossed, it is common for there to be some minor bleeding of the gum tissue. However, this may be a sign of gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease. You may also be pushing the floss too far into your gums if you are experiencing bleeding. 

Are floss sticks as effective as string floss? 

Most dentists agree that floss sticks make it more difficult to ensure proper flossing technique. It is harder to wrap the floss around the teeth to reach the pockets along the gum line when using a floss stick. However, using a floss stick is better than not flossing at all. 

Learn More About Flossing From Hi-Fi Dental

If you would like to learn more about proper flossing technique and the benefits to your oral health and wellness, Hi-Fi Dental can help. Call 602-242-5445 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.