Flossing is always underrated. Everybody knows the importance of a toothbrush and toothpaste. However, most people think of flossing as an extra, not really essential to proper oral hygiene. And if you’re like most, you don’t give much thought to learning how to floss your teeth better.
Well, you couldn’t be more wrong. Your oral hygiene is never complete without proper flossing. Every tooth has 5 surfaces: the facial surface against the cheeks and lips, the lingual surface against the tongue and palate, the upper surface which grinds and clenches the food, and two side surfaces found between the teeth. Brushing can easily take care of the first three. However, no brush can reach the side surfaces between the teeth. Only flossing can do that. For that reason, if you don’t use floss, you’re essentially not cleaning over 1/3 of your tooth!
That is why it is not only important but absolutely essential to know how to floss your teeth better. And, not just better – more efficiently.
Why is Flossing So Important?
As we explained, only flossing can reach those tough-to-clean and shielded areas between the teeth. What you should also know is that those areas are responsible for nearly every problem that can occur inside the mouth. It is between the teeth where gum disease usually arises. In addition, it is between the teeth that most of the decay process happens.
Methods of Flossing
Most people think that flossing is restricted to using the string floss that is wrapped around your fingers. However, while string floss is the gold standard, it is not the only method out there. Other methods of flossing include:
- Floss pick: A piece of string held in a plastic holder, making it easier to grasp and use.
- Interdental brush: A small nylon brush shaped much like a toothpick, able to easily glide between the teeth.
- Air flosser: A more technically advanced option where a device uses compressed air to clear out the food debris between the teeth.
- Water flosser: To date, this is the most efficient method of flossing, although a bit more expensive. This uses a gentle stream of water to clean out the area between the teeth. Some also add medications to strengthen the teeth.
How to Floss Your Teeth Better and More Efficiently
After learning about all the proper ways of flossing, and how flossing is really a lifesaver when it comes to oral hygiene, all you need to do now is select the method that is easiest and most efficient for you and just keep at it.
Consistency is key. Think of flossing as a part of your daily oral hygiene regimen. The more you do it, the better you’ll get at reaching every area and being more thorough. That is how to floss your teeth better and more efficiently.
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