Ever had your dentist tell you that you don’t floss, even though you use floss picks every night? You’re not alone—many people have had the same confusing experience. As it turns out, your dentist may not be gaslighting you. There’s more to flossing than just using a pick.
Dentists recommend adding toothpaste to your floss, and many don’t consider floss picks a sufficient alternative to traditional floss. According to Rotdem Dental Care, while using a floss pick is better than not flossing at all, it doesn’t clean as thoroughly as regular string floss. The reason? Floss picks can’t fully contour to the shape of your teeth, which are oval or round and have irregularities. Traditional floss, when used correctly, can reach more of the tooth’s surface.
For those who, like me, find it tough to use traditional floss—especially around crowded teeth or molars—there’s hope. Periodontist Dr. Sasha Ross explains that most of us have never been properly taught how to brush and floss.
To floss effectively, Dr. Ross recommends taking a length of floss about the width of your shoulders. Wrap the ends around your thumbs and forefingers, leaving two inches of floss in between. The key is to cup the floss around each tooth and gently rub it up and down the gumline, focusing on the small triangle of gum (the papilla) that toothbrushes often miss. Repeat this for every tooth, making sure to use a clean segment of floss each time.
If you have dexterity issues or simply prefer using a tool, Dr. Ross acknowledges that floss picks are a suitable alternative. However, she cautions against using excessive force or jamming floss into your gums.
For those new to flossing or returning after a break, bleeding gums might be a common issue. Dr. Ross encourages patients to stick with it—as long as the technique is correct, the bleeding usually stops within a week. However, persistent bleeding could be a sign of gum disease, so it’s worth consulting your dentist if the issue continues.
When it comes to choosing between waxed or unwaxed floss, studies show there’s no significant difference. However, Dr. Ross finds unwaxed floss to be slightly more effective.
Finally, Dr. Ross emphasizes that flossing is crucial because brushing alone doesn’t reach the spaces between your teeth. If you’re struggling, don’t give up. Look in the mirror to ensure proper technique and ask your dentist, hygienist, or periodontist for help if needed.
So, if your dentist critiques your flossing habits, they may just be encouraging you to level up your technique. It could make all the difference for your oral health.
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