You’re probably used to getting asked during your dental visits if you are flossing regularly. Dental professionals consider daily flossing a critical part of good dental hygiene. Maybe you’re one of the many people who recognize that fact, but find flossing with traditional string floss a challenge. Fortunately, there are a number of floss alternatives that can produce results similar to those of the traditional.
Floss Alternatives #1: Toothpicks
The simple toothpick can be useful in keeping the area between your teeth free of food particles. However, when you use a toothpick do so with a light, careful touch; vigorous use can damage gums. A toothpick may not be the best alternative, but it is better than nothing.
Floss Alternatives #2: Floss Holders
Floss holders, or flossers, are a string floss alternative that can be particularly helpful to young children or people with limited flexibility. A floss holder is just a piece of dental floss on a handle. There are many types available in a variety of sizes and configurations, and many people find they are much easier to use than traditional string floss.
Floss Alternatives #3: Interdental Brushes
Interdental brushes have small bristled heads designed to clean between your teeth. They come in different widths to suit the size of the gaps between your teeth. You should follow your dentist’s advice on how to use them.
Floss Alternatives #4: Electric Flossers
Electric flossers work by vibrating a piece of fishing line-like nylon between the teeth in an oscillating motion. They’re easy to handle and allow you to floss with just one hand.
Floss Alternatives #5: Oral Irrigators
Oral irrigators (also called dental water jets or water flossers) are devices that use a stream of pulsing water to remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth and below the gum line.
Given all of these floss alternatives, your discomfort with or dislike of using traditional floss is really no excuse for skipping this important step toward maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If you have trouble figuring out the one that will work best for you, consult your hygienist or dentist.
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Meet Dr. Wolnik in Parma Heights, Ohio
For more than 10 years, Kenneth J. Wolnik, DDS has practiced dentistry in Parma Heights, Ohio. Dr. Wolnik and his team provide comprehensive dental services including cleaning, fillings, implants, periodontal disease treatment, teeth whitening, and more! When patients make an appointment with Dr. Wolnik, they can expect the highest level of professionalism and a commitment to providing the best dental care in the area.