Flossing

Dental floss is a thin cord of filaments which is used to remove food and plaque from between the teeth. It is helpful to use in areas which a toothbrush cannot reach.

Using floss as part of daily oral hygiene is often recommended as it aids in preventing gingivitis and the build-up of plaque. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), up to 80% of plaque can be eliminated with the regular use of floss. Daily flossing may also be especially beneficial for patients who have an orthodontic device.

Dentists recommend that patients floss at least once each day prior to or after brushing. Flossing aids in reaching the areas which cannot be effectively cleaned with the toothbrush, such as the areas located between the teeth. Floss often comes in a plastic dispenser which contains about 10 to 100 meters of the product. After removing the desired amount of floss, a blade which is located inside the dispenser is used to cut it off. Floss can also come in a pick or fork-like form which tightly holds floss between two plastic pieces. The floss is then guided between each of the teeth. It should be pushed against the side of the tooth in a 'C' shape and gently slid below the gumline. This process aids in removing particles and debris which is stuck between teeth, in addition to dental plaque which has collected below the gumline.

Types of Floss

There are numerous types of dental floss available for patients to use. These many forms include floss which is waxed, unwaxed monofilaments and multifilaments. Dental floss made from monofilaments coated in wax is able to easily slide between the teeth. It does not quickly fray and is generally more expensive. The thickness of the floss is one of the most important differences. Both waxed and unwaxed floss is available in differing widths. Based on numerous studies, waxed and unwaxed dental floss do not demonstrate a difference in their effectiveness. Some types of waxed dental floss, contains antibacterial agents, in addition to sodium fluoride. Some of the important factors to consider when selecting a floss include the space which exists between teeth and the patient’s individual preference. A floss product which is wider and flatter compared to conventional floss is dental tape. It is often recommended for patients who have a larger tooth surface area.

Regardless of the type of dental floss selected, there is not a significant difference in its ability to remove dental plaque. Fortunately, floss which is inexpensive virtually just as effective as the most expensive floss available.

Some of the factors which should be considered when a patient is selecting the right type of floss to use can include:

• Contour of the gingival tissue
• Interproximal surface roughness
• Patient’s dexterity and personal preference
• Tightness of the contact area and width of the floss

Some patients prefer to use a special plastic wands or pick to hold the floss rather than holding it with their hands. One benefit of the wand is that they do not pinch fingers like conventional floss often does. However, using a wand can also be awkward and can make it a challenge to floss at particular angles. In addition, these types of flossers can also make it challenging to reach the area below the gum line. The wand does enhance the patient’s ability to floss the molars and back teeth.