Oral Health Surprises: Dental Floss

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Are you effectively cleaning between your teeth on a daily basis? If you are not, you will need to start using dental floss or a similar interdental cleaning tool to make sure that your teeth are adequately cleaned on all sides including between them. This is important to avoid plaque buildup. Plaque is a thin layer of debris and bacteria that begins to collect in your mouth and can contribute to the rise of dental erosion and gum disease. An effective oral hygiene routine that includes cleaning between your teeth every day can adequately protect your smile against several oral health risks including plaque buildup.

When determining which type of dental floss to use, make sure that products that you use are able to clean between teeth effectively. Depending on your old health care needs you may need a dental floss or a water flosser. Focus on using a shred-resistant floss so it will not tear when it is being used. If you’re struggling with traditional thread, try switching to alternative interdental tools such as water flossers, which can be used to wash away debris between teeth using beams of water. However, if you do decide on using a traditional threaded floss, use a section that is roughly 18” in length for each flossing session. Do not use the same section of the thread more than once, as doing so can cause recontamination to occur. To avoid recontamination, move up and down the strand as needed. Wrap each end of the thread around a finger on each hand so you can gently clean between your teeth effectively.

Are you attracted to the idea of effective cleaning treatments in Union Springs, Alabama? If so, you are welcome to schedule an appointment with Dr. Letitia M. Williams at our dental office by calling us at 334.377.3778. Letitia M. Williams, DDS, LLC looks forward to enhancing your smile with routine cleanings.