Why and how to use a dental floss?

Plaque buildup can cause cavities and gum problems. The proper use of dental floss would remedy these inconveniences by eliminating plaque and food debris between the teeth. Dental floss is strongly recommended, you just have to adopt it!

Why use a dental floss?

Dental floss is used in addition to daily brushing (ideally after each meal), it can clean areas difficult to access with a simple toothbrush. However, it is recommended to consult a dentist each year to perform a descaling of the teeth.

How to choose the right dental floss?

You can buy dental floss in pharmacy, drugstore, and supermarkets. There are nylon, teflon or polyethylene threads. Nylon yarn, which is cheaper to buy, may unravel or break on contact with a tight dentition. You will also find waxed and unpolished threads. The waxed threads slip better into the teeth but would be a little less effective in cleaning a loose tooth.

Manual

You can use a dental floss after each brushing by following these 3 steps:

1- Cut about 40 cm of dental floss

2- Wrap both ends of the thread around each index finger without loosening, and stretch the thread using the thumbs

3- Thread the thread between two teeth with a slight up and down movement (not back and forth like a saw!), Never forcing. 

Repeat the operation making sure to use a clean wire for each use.