Flossing - are there really differences in the types of floss available? Is flossing really necessary?

Do you floss daily? Many of us ignore the fact that flossing is a significant step to keep our teeth free from decay and cavities.  

Plaque and food debris can accumulate between our teeth, causing the bacteria to wear away our teeth's enamel. It is not possible to eliminate this debris and bacteria by brushing the teeth alone. While brushing cleans the top and side surfaces of the teeth, flossing helps eliminate the bacteria from the areas that can't be accessed with the toothbrush.

Is it necessary to floss your teeth?

Regular flossing can prevent plaque accumulation on the teeth, which can lead to tartar and various dental problems. 

Here are the benefits of regular flossing of teeth; this explains why it is vital to make flossing a habit.

• Preventative dental care

When done correctly, flossing eliminates the food debris and bacteria from the areas between the teeth where our toothbrush cannot access, thereby preventing bacteria buildup. Thus, brushing and flossing together form the basis for at-home preventative dental care.

• Prevents Bad Breath

Severe bad breath can be caused by the bacteria in the debris trapped in between teeth and in the gum line. Flossing helps to remove the bad smell from the mouth while keeping your breath fresh. 

• Reduces tooth decay and cavities

Plaque and tartar accumulation on the teeth can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Regular flossing helps remove the food debris and prevents plaque accumulation, thus reducing the risk of tooth decay.

• It helps prevent gum disease.

Plaque buildup, if left untreated, can lead to severe gum disease necessitating advanced dental treatments or tooth removal. Proper brushing and flossing, along with professional dental cleanings twice a year, can reduce the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis. 

Types of dental flosses

There are different types of dental flosses available; the most important among them are as follows.

• Waxed Floss

Waxed floss is known for its durability. It consists of wax-coated nylon string that makes the floss strong by preventing the breakage of the strands. However, the wax coating may make it difficult to fit the floss into close spaces between our teeth.

• Unwaxed Floss

Unwaxed floss is made of a large number of nylon strands twisted to form a single string. Unwaxed floss is easy to use between the teeth because of the lack of wax coating. However, they are not strong and are more prone to breakage. 

• Dental Tape

Dental tape, also referred to as ribbon tape, is thicker and flatter than standard floss. They are more convenient for people having more space between their teeth. 

• Super floss

Super flosses are designed mainly to assist those with large gaps between their teeth or are with braces or dental bridges. Super floss is made from a yarn-like substance and hence has stiff sections on the ends and a fluffy, thicker part in the middle. 

Do you have any doubts about flossing? Call Dental Health PC, Corvallis, OR at (541) 757-1829 or schedule an appointment online.