Technology has brought the dental industry some wonderful advancements, like X-rays and the electric toothbrush. Fairly recently, water flossing emerged. These devices uses jets of water to clean between teeth and along the gum line. Much like traditional floss, the water can remove food from the crevices where it can get stuck in your mouth.
Before tossing in the floss and purchasing a water flosser, there are some things that our Charlotte dentist wants you to know:
1. The American Dental Association Approves
There has been a heated debate regarding whether or not a water flossing device can replace regular floss. The ADA has weighed in and stated that both tools are an effective and necessary way to maintain oral health.
2. Helpful for People with Trouble Flossing
Some people have difficulty flossing. For example, doing the work by hand can be straining for someone with arthritis or another medical condition. A water flossing device can take away that burden.
3. Eliminates Trouble With Dental Work
It used to be that people who have braces or a fixed bridge would have trouble flossing regularly. The routine could end up being labor-intensive, even turning some people away from doing it. Fortunately, using a water flossing machine simplifies the work.
4. May Not Be the Best Substitute
Generally speaking, flossing with ADA-approved dental floss is the most effective way for cleaning between teeth. According to the Mayo Clinic, the scraping action helps not only to remove food particles and bacteria, but also to fight plaque. A water-based device, on the other hand, typically only rinses these areas. However, it is important to point out that using a water flosser is better than doing nothing at all.
Tips for Flossing
People of all ages who have teeth that touch should be flossing. Yes, even children whose teeth have just begun nudging against each other should floss. Experts recommend flossing once per day and brushing twice a day.
If you have issues flossing or are new to the game, try these tips:
- Ask our dentist to show you how to properly floss between teeth
- Start with 12 to 18 inches of floss, winding it around your fingers to leave about an inch or two
- Slide the floss between teeth, curving it around the base of the tooth to get below the gum line
There are a number of different kinds of floss and water flossing products. To figure out which one is right for you, please ask us for help!
