Flossing between teeth should be included as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Brushing alone cannot remove all the food particles left behind between teeth and around the gum line, and flossing can help to accomplish this. Although traditional floss is available in a wide variety of thicknesses and flavors, there are other products that are effective and do the same job. Here are a few of the dental floss options you can find at your local drugstore or online.
- Water flossers: Many dentists recommend water flossers for their patients. There are several varieties available, most of which either connect to a bathroom faucet or come equipped with a reservoir that holds water. A spraying instrument is used to spray a thin stream of water inside the mouth. Water flossers are especially effective at removing food particles and debris not only between teeth, but along the gum line as well.
- Floss picks: These handy devices consist of a small piece of Y-shaped plastic with dental floss strung between the prongs. Many people find floss picks are perfect to carry along with them when they’re away from home.
- Interdental brushes: These appliances are especially helpful for people with limited mobility who might have a difficult time using other types of flossing devices. An interdental brush consists of a handle with a thinly bristled flossing head. These brushes are not disposable; they can be used until the brush becomes too worn to be effective.
- Dental picks: These instruments are similar to interdental brushes, and consist of a handle with either bristles or a small rubber tip on the end. You can use a dental pick in much the same way as you would a toothpick to remove food trapped between teeth or at the gum line.
- Air flossing devices: One of the newest flossing instruments on the market is the air flossing device, which basically works the same as a water flossing device except that air is used in combination with water.
Whether you choose one of these flossing alternatives, or prefer to floss the old-fashioned way, keep in mind how important it is to floss each and every day, in addition to brushing your teeth at least twice a day. A regular oral hygiene routine – one that you perform day in and day out – along with regular trips to your dentist for professional exams and cleanings, is the only way to maintain good oral health.