Is it necessary to floss? How to clean your interdental spaces
By Philips
01/09/2020
5-2 min. read
Your dentist has certainly already informed you that good oral hygiene does not only include brushing your teeth, but also cleaning the interdental spaces. If the plaque with the bacteria is not removed from the interdental spaces, this can lead to caries, gum disease and bad breath. With dental floss, even the smallest and narrow tooth areas can be cleaned in the best possible way. In this article, you will learn how to use dental floss properly; In addition, we answer important questions about flossing, for example, how often floss should be used and whether you should floss before or after brushing your teeth.
At a glance
- Using dental floss properly: Here's how it works
- More tips on flossing
Using dental floss properly: Here's how it works
When flossing, it is important that you use the right technique so as not to hurt yourself. How to floss correctly:
- With freshly washed hands, separate an approximately 40 cm long piece of dental floss from the roll so that you can then use a new, clean area for each tooth.
- Wrap the ends several times around the middle fingers on each hand.
- Now stretch an approximately 2-4cm long piece of dental floss tightly between thumb and index finger and gently insert it into the interdental space.
- Let the floss slide between the teeth with a zigzag movement.
- When the floss reaches the gum line, press against the tooth in a C-shape and gently scrape the plaque away from the gums.
- Then repeat this procedure for the other tooth at this interdental space and then move on to the next one.
- As you continue to work your way forward, always roll off a fresh piece of dental floss from your finger and don't forget to clean the back of each tooth as well.
- When you're done, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and then brush your teeth as usual.
Our tip: If you do not want to floss daily, there are devices for interdental cleaning, such as the Philips Sonicare AirFloss Ultra. Through air bursts enriched with microdroplets, it effectively removes plaque in interdental spaces and helps you maintain healthy care.
More tips on flossing
Now you know how to use dental floss properly. Further frequently asked questions about flossing are answered here:
- How often does it make sense to floss? Once a day, preferably before bedtime.
- Should you floss before or after brushing? Floss before brushing your teeth. Brushing eliminates plaque remnants and bacteria that are brought from the interdental spaces to the tooth surface by flossing. In addition, the motivation before brushing your teeth is still strongest for this not quite uncomplicated technique.
- Which dental floss is right for me? This varies from person to person. Waxed floss is a little easier to insert into very narrow interdental spaces and may be a little more comfortable for sensitive gums, while unwaxed floss is perceived by some as more pleasant. In terms of plaque removal, it is more effective.
- Why does my gums bleed when I floss? If you have just started flossing, the gums may start bleeding slightly at first. However, if bleeding still occurs after a few days, see your dentist, as this could be a sign of gingivitis.
- Are children allowed to floss? Yes! The regular use of dental floss is a great way to get children used to the right dental hygiene routine at an early age. Assist your children in the first years and proceed cautiously.
If you have not yet made the regular use of dental floss or an interdental cleaning device a habit, then start today. Your teeth and gums will thank you.
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