Food debris and plaque lodge under the gum line and between teeth making it nearly impossible to clean the areas with brushing alone. Flossing will remove tooth-decaying bits left behind. There are different varieties of dental floss; select the right type for your teeth.
What is Floss?
Dental floss is a thin, synthetic fiber designed to slide between teeth and under the gum line. Floss is usually white and can come in flavoured or unflavoured varieties.
Waxed Floss
This type of floss has a thin wax coating. It’s the most popular type of floss because it may be easier to slide between teeth. However, waxed floss could be slightly more difficult to get between teeth that are extremely close, but it’s tough and less likely to break in those tough spots.
Unwaxed Floss
This is the type of floss often used by those of us with teeth that are close or tightly aligned. Unwaxed floss is not strong and is can fray or break.
Dental Tape
Although like traditional floss, the strand of dental tape is flatter and broader. Dental tape comes in waxed and unwaxed varieties and is suited for cleaning between teeth that are not close.
“Super” Floss
This type of floss is more like yarn than string and has a stiff portion on each end for better control during usage. Super floss is a good option for people with braces, bridges, or dental implants.
Polytetrafluoroethylene Floss
This type of floss is made from very durable synthetic fibers that can stand up to a lot of tugging and pulling. This floss is good to use in between teeth that are close together, making flossing difficult.
Floss Threader
Floss is threaded through this needle-like device, making it easier to push the floss through spaces between various types of dental work.
Floss Holder
These can be purchased with floss already in them or you can place your favorite type of floss into its “Y” shape. The holder makes using floss easier for some people.
Wedge Stimulator
Made from wood or plastic, the triangular shape of a wedge stimulator is used to remove plaque from teeth around the gum line and to reduce inflammation in gum tissue.
Good oral hygiene, including regular flossing, is needed for a lifetime of dental health. For more advice regarding total oral care for the entire family, call Springdale Dental Centre at (905) 458-1212 today for an appointment.
