By: Dr. Elizabeth Eggert
When it comes to keeping your mouth healthy, brushing alone isn’t enough – you also need to floss daily. Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris between your teeth, in places your toothbrush simply can’t reach. To floss properly, start with about 18 inches of string floss. Wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a short section to work with. Gently slide the floss between your teeth using your thumb and forefinger to guide the floss in a back-and-forth motion, then curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Carefully move the floss up and down, making sure it goes just under the gumline. Repeat this process for each tooth, using a clean section of floss as you go.
Why String Floss Stands Out
String floss remains the gold standard for cleaning between your teeth. It’s effective at removing plaque when used correctly, and it gives you full control over pressure and placement. At Eggert Family Dentistry in North Oaks, MN, Dr. Jeff Eggert and Dr. Elizabeth Eggert often find that patients who use a woven type of string floss have lower plaque levels compared to those who use other products. For years, one of our favorite woven flosses was unavailable, but we’re happy to share that it’s back! You can once again find Reach Ultraclean Gentle Gum Care woven floss on Amazon, and it’s available at a reasonable price – it’s back by popular demand.
Flossing Alternatives: Water Flossers
Many people turn to flossing alternatives such as water flossers. These devices use a steady stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gumline. The main advantage is that they’re easy to use, especially if you have braces, implants, or bridges. They can also feel gentler for sensitive gums. However, water flossers don’t scrape plaque from the sides of your teeth as effectively as string floss. They are a helpful supplement, but they shouldn’t replace traditional flossing altogether.
Floss Picks and Interdental Brushes
Floss picks and interdental brushes are other popular alternatives. Floss picks are convenient and portable, making them great for on-the-go use. The drawback is that they don’t allow you to curve the floss properly around each tooth, so you may not get the same thorough clean. Interdental brushes, on the other hand, are especially effective for cleaning larger spaces or around orthodontic appliances. The downside is that they’re not always practical for tight contacts between teeth. Both tools can be helpful additions, but neither fully matches the effectiveness of string floss when it comes to daily plaque removal.
Finding What Works Best for You
Ultimately, the best flossing method is the one you’ll use consistently. At Eggert Family Dentistry, we’re always happy to review flossing techniques with you at your next recare visit and help you find the right product for your unique needs. Whether you prefer classic woven floss, a water flosser, or an interdental brush, the key is making flossing part of your daily routine. With the return of Reach Ultraclean Gentle Gum Care woven floss, you now have another excellent option to keep your smile healthy and your gums strong. Call us today for your next appointment – 651.492.8412.
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