Brushing regularly twice a day and flossing at least once daily are the tried and true methods of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. But let’s be honest, most people do not like flossing. Flossing itself might not be the issue, but rather the method. Flossing can sometimes be difficult to accomplish with traditional floss especially in hard to reach areas, not to mention possibly painful. Traditional flossing isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up. We are here to help make flossing a pleasant and beneficial experience for you.
Why is flossing important?
Plaque and leftover food often work their way between teeth and under your gums. No matter how often you brush and rinse, it’s there. Cleaning between your teeth removes plaque before it can turn to tartar that leads to cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental troubles. Flossing regularly allows you to clean those hard to reach spaces that toothbrushes can’t reach, between teeth, and around your gum line.
We understand that can be easier said than done. Many people find it difficult using dental floss to navigate in their mouths or have a poor technique that can lead to bleeding and irritated gums. Flossing should not be damaging or painful. You have to be gentle, but firm enough to thoroughly clean. That can be challenging, but thankfully there are many alternatives aside from dental floss that is safe and effective in cleaning your teeth.
What can you use instead of traditional floss?
Interdental Brushes
Proxy brushes, or interdental brushes, are round/cone-shaped brushes with small bristles made of silicone or nylon held together by a wire. This flexible brush is designed to fit in-between your teeth and comes in a variety of sizes so that you can select the one (or ones) that work best for your teeth. If it feels tight, don’t force it, but instead use a smaller sized brush.
This method can be easier as it removes the issue of having to deal with the string of floss and wrapping it around your fingers. Some interdental brushes come with different handles to make it easier for you to hold and maneuver.
People who have tightly spaced teeth may have trouble using this method and those with electronic implants should avoid using brushes with exposed metal.
Water Flossers
A water flosser is a device that cleans by flushing a stream of water in-between your teeth and around the gum line to remove plaque and food. These alternative flossing devices require a water tank that often comes with purchase and electricity to power the flosser. A knob or dial can help you to adjust the pressure of the water to your desired comfort. Always read and follow the instructions for your specific device.
If you’ve had experiences with traditional string floss where it was painful or got stuck between your gums or teeth, water flossers may be a great option for you. Water flossers are great options for those with limited dexterity or have orthodontic devices such as braces. The massaging action of the water can also help to improve gum health.
These products are often more costly than traditional floss and can prove difficult to use outside of your home or while traveling.
Pre-Threaded Flossers
These are plastic u-shaped tools with dental floss already attached. They can be handy for those who struggle to hold the floss between their fingers and make it easier to navigate within your mouth without your fingers getting in the way. They are made to be disposed of after each use but are often sold in packs for your convenience.
Who benefits from these alternatives?
- People with limited dexterity: Sometimes maneuvering floss around your mouth (especially in the back area) can prove difficult. This can be true for those who suffer from joint problems, have limited mobility, or children who do not have the dexterity to manipulate string floss throughout their mouth properly.
- People who have braces or other orthodontic devices: Patients with orthodontic devices such as braces or other specialized treatment may not be able to floss with the traditional method. These alternatives to flossing can help remove food and plaque from between teeth and around brackets as well as the gum line.
- People who don’t like to floss: Anyone can be put off by flossing because it can be difficult or maybe they just don’t like putting things between their teeth. These methods can help complete that important task of flossing without the stress of doing it the traditional way.
- People with spaces between their teeth: If you have large or tight spaces between your teeth, uneven surfaces, or a receding gum line it can be hard to clean with string floss. These alternatives may be more effective in properly removing plaque and debris from your mouth.
We want you to know there are other methods out there aside from string floss. Speak with your dentist about alternatives so they can give you a personalized recommendation based on your teeth, gums, and dental history. Whatever method you choose, make it a habit and keep flossing because a healthy mouth is important! Regular brushing and flossing set the foundation for great oral hygiene and health. Be sure to see a dentist twice a year for professional cleanings as some plaque and build up only they can remove. Speak to Ace Dental Group today to discuss which flossing method is the best option for you.
