Flossing should be done twice daily after brushing on the routine basis. Only brushing does not clean in between teeth surfaces as contacts are tight. Due to this dental floss should be used to remove debris from between teeth. Flossing reduces the chances to gum inflammations. Removing stuck debris with toothpicks or safety pins leads to further bleeding from gums and inflammation of the pricked area.

Even though we’ve been brushing and flossing our teeth for years and years, many of us are surprised to learn that we’re not doing it properly. Case in point: Did you know that proper brushing takes at least two minutes? Most adults do not come close to brushing that long. 

These four steps are the best and easiest ways to help you remember how to care for your mouth, teeth and gums:

  1. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes, especially the first thing in the morning and before bedtime 
  2. Floss every day – usually at bedtime Limit the number of times you eat snacks each day. 
  3. Visit your dentist every six months for an oral exam and professional cleaning.
  4. Pins lead to gum bleeding and elaborating the gap to an extent that it leads to tooth decay. 

Here’s something you may not know - nearly half the surface area of your teeth lies between them. And no, we’re not telling you this so you can ace the next dental trivia contest you attend. Why that particular information is important is because if you’re solely relying on brushing you’re not cleaning a large portion of your teeth, which in turn can affect how healthy your teeth and gums are. By removing the plaque from between your teeth, you’re helping to prevent gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis, otherwise known as “bad breath”.

So flossing, or interdental cleaning as it’s officially known, is an essential part of caring for your teeth and gums, and not some kind of “nice to have” added extra. 

What Type of Floss Should I Use?

There are two types of floss from which to choose: 

  • Nylon (or multifilament) floss
  • PTFE (monofilament) floss. 

Nylon floss is available waxed and unwaxed and in a variety of flavours. Because this type of floss is composed of many strands of nylon, it may sometimes tear or shred, especially between teeth with tight contact points. While more expensive, single filament (PTFE) floss slides easily between teeth, even those with tight spaces between teeth, and is virtually shred-resistant. When used properly, both types of floss are excellent at removing plaque and debris.

Flossing along with brushing and tongue cleaning maintains oral health in a proper method reducing the complexity of bad odour from mouth, making a more confident smile.