Brushing your teeth twice daily helps keep your mouth healthy and free of cavities. When you’re just brushing and not flossing, though, you’re only cleaning about 60 percent of your teeth’s surfaces. Floss reaches where toothbrushes cannot, removing food and plaque that causes infections, cavities, and even periodontal disease.
Many people will admit they don’t floss regularly. They say it takes too long or is too uncomfortable. The right floss can make all the difference. Given how important flossing is to the overall health of your mouth, it’s important to find the best type of floss for you – and the correct technique.
Tips for Choosing Floss
Generally speaking, unwaxed dental floss is considered the best type, as it cleans more effectively than waxed alternatives where the filaments are bound together. If you’re not a fan of unwaxed floss, though, it’s important to keep trying other options. Flossing in some way is always better than not flossing at all!
If you struggle to reach your back teeth, for instance, you may want to choose a floss pick with a long handle. The handle provides a better grip, allowing you to comfortably floss hard-to-reach areas. If your floss shreds easily, opt for a gliding floss. If you just don’t have time to floss, invest in some floss picks to keep in your car, by your desk, and by the TV. Flossing even for a minute or two can have major health benefits.
Don’t Let Perfect be the Enemy of Good
You don’t need to be perfect at flossing to make it a part of your regular routine. It doesn’t need to happen at a particular time of day, and you don’t need to make the experience painful or uncomfortable. Instead, try a variety of flosses that fit into your lifestyle. After a week of daily flossing, you may even find that you start to look forward to cleaning your mouth thoroughly! Contact us to find out more about the benefits of flossing!