Flossing is a combination of thin strands of plastic or nylon, whose function is the removal of dental plaque and small fragments of food from the spaces between the teeth.
This thread is introduced between the teeth in a delicate way and rubbed between the edges of the teeth emphasizing the areas near the gums.
There are two types of floss or dental floss:
Nylon dental floss
- Many filaments
- Different flavors
- It can break, tear to pieces or fray as it passes through tight contact points between the teeth.
PtFE (Polytetrafluorethylene, Teflon) dental floss
- Single filament (very thin)
- It can be more expensive
- It is waxed, soft and protects from damage to the gums (when passing it)
- Better sliding between teeth
- Usually does not fray
- In any case, before a correct use of floss or dental floss, both options are effective to prevent and take care of your oral health.
Benefits of flossing:
- It decreases the number of bacteria that cause diseases in both the gum and cavities.
- It eliminates food leftovers, mainly fibrous foods such as meat, which are between our teeth, under the gums and that form bacterial plaque.
- The main function is to remove the bacterial plaque found on the walls that are in contact between the different dental pieces.
- Unlike the toothbrush, flossing cleans areas, in which the brush can not reach, so it is important to use it.
- Daily use is also recommended to eliminate bacterial plaque that is forming daily, always in order to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Flossing along with the toothbrush can prevent diseases such as halitosis (bad breath), gum infections, and cavities.
- It is important to acquire the practice little by little and do it carefully so as not to damage or go on to carry the gums.
Now that you know its benefits, you will wonder how to use floss or dental floss? and here we give you a simple explanation.
- Remove and cut about 40 to 45 cm of dental floss, roll most of each limb in the fingers (ring or middle) of each hand, leaving about 3 to 5 cm of dental floss to pass through the middle of the teeth.
- To give tension use the thumbs and index fingers. Then run the floss or silk up and down rubbing the edge of each tooth to remove bacterial plaque and food leftovers.
- Replace the floss as you move between each tooth.
- When taking out the floss or dental floss you must do it in the same way from back to front taking it out.
We recommend that you do it at least 2 times a day and mainly before going to sleep, in order to maintain very good oral health.
