Interdental cleaning is an integral and irreplaceable part of a complete oral hygiene routine. The most common form of interdental cleaning is flossing. Let’s take a look at a few common questions presented about flossing.
What is flossing? Why is it important?
Flossing is a common method of cleaning between teeth. While brushing cleans plaque and debris off of the surfaces of your teeth, flossing removes plaque from spaces your toothbrush can’t reach, such as in between teeth and behind the back molars.
How often should I floss?
You should floss one time every day, for two to three minutes. It doesn’t matter if you floss before or after you brush, as long as you do both.
Can I just use mouthwash instead?
No, mouthwash is not an effective substitute for flossing. However, it does bring its own benefits and can be part of an effective oral care routine.
If it is hard for you to follow traditional flossing methods, there are alternatives. Pre-strung flossers are a great option, especially if you need just a little extra reach to get behind those back molars! If you floss regularly, but your gums still get irritated or bleed frequently, floss designed for sensitive gums may be a good alternative to regular dental floss. Water flossers are also an effective option, especially if you have trouble maneuvering traditional dental floss. Water flossers are available and many major retail chains and most drugstores.
For more information, call Amr M Enaya DDS Inc in Galt, California, at 209-744-9955. Drs. Enaya, Amer and Cheung are happy to help you get the smile you desire!