What many people refer to as simply flossing is something we prefer to call cleaning between your teeth (or interdental cleaning). Floss is just one of many tools you can use to accomplish this important daily task! The important thing is not that you use floss, but that you adequately clean the sides of your teeth and the area between them every day using an effective method.
Cleaning between your teeth may help maintain your oral health in two main ways. First, it dislodges trapped debris and food matter in difficult-to-reach areas. Second, it removes plaque (also known as biofilm) from the sides of your teeth. Removing plaque is crucial to your oral health, as it contributes to many dental problems if left unchecked.
Failing to clean between your teeth adequately may contribute to:
Brushing your teeth is essential but doesn’t remove all your plaque on its own. Cleaning between your teeth is associated with a lower frequency of gum disease, cavities, and missing teeth.
Some people may avoid cleaning between their teeth precisely because they don’t enjoy one specific method, like using floss. If this describes you, you’re in luck! The modern world has more technologies and tools on the market than ever before to ensure you can choose the method that works best for you.
The best way to clean between your teeth is the one that you’ll actually be able to follow through on and do day in and day out. It’s a good idea to experiment and find the method that you enjoy most. If you have an orthodontic appliance, difficulty reaching certain areas, or simply don’t enjoy one method, rest assured other options are available.
Methods to properly clean between your teeth may include:
Whatever option attracts you most, be sure to select a product with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance to ensure that professionals accept it. An interdental cleaning product must be more effective than brushing on its own and safe for use without damaging your mouth to gain approval.
Helpful tip: While it can be tempting to use other items to clean between your teeth, doing so is not recommended. Be sure not to use utensils, safety pins, or other methods that could damage your teeth.
If you currently don’t have a habit of cleaning between your teeth, not to worry. Now is the best time to start a new routine that you can maintain for the rest of your life to prevent oral problems and keep your smile in top shape.
If flossing is uncomfortable or causes bleeding at first, don’t let this discourage you. Be sure to floss gently, as removing plaque may help reduce gingivitis and its symptoms.
Tips to help make a habit of cleaning between your teeth may include:
No matter what your favorite method for cleaning between your teeth is, there are some helpful tips to ensure you’re doing it adequately. As mentioned above, the most important part of cleaning between your teeth is that you do it thoroughly and every day.
Tips for maintaining a proper oral care routine may include:
You’ve made a great choice to inform yourself on the benefits and methods of cleaning between your teeth and how to do so effectively. Rest assured that many who used to dislike cleaning between their teeth found a tool that worked for their needs and soon built a rewarding daily habit.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
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ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine