Many people struggle to commit to a routine of flossing, but it’s important for oral health. The ADA says only 16% of Americans floss once a day, yet it keeps teeth strong and a smile bright. If traditional floss isn’t for you, an alternative can help. A diligent approach to wellness makes all the difference.
It turns out even those who seem to have it together just find easier habits. Try, read, and keep your health in check—experts everywhere agree it’s better than skipping. Let’s explore a list of simple options!
Why Flossing is Essential
After eating, food gets stuck in your mouth, and while saliva helps with rinsing, leftovers remain. This leads to buildup of bacteria, a sticky film called plaque, and if not removed, it causes decay, disease, and inflammation.
Brushing for minutes, twice daily with a toothbrush isn’t enough—it’s hard to reach every spot. Getting teeth brushed and flossed helps stay on top of problems before they quickly get bigger. A natural way to break down good habits keeps your oral health strong.
Three Flossing Alternatives That Still Work
If you dislike traditional floss, you’re not the only one. Instead, try these three flossing alternatives to efficiently remove bacteria from your teeth.
Water Flossers
A water flosser is a hand-held device that uses a steady stream of water to remove food, debris, and bacteria from tight space between teeth. Approved by the ADA, these flossers with the Seal of Acceptance are tested for safety and efficacy. Research shows they clear plaque, reduce risk of gingivitis, and are more physically comfortable than thread floss.
Interdental Brushes
Interdental brushes are an alternative to flossing, designed to clean space between teeth with thin, cone-shaped bristles on a wire. They are easier to use than thread floss, insert gently, and fit comfortably. Ideal for braces, they remove plaque, prevent buildup, and help those with difficulty maneuvering normal floss or navigate around metal.
Tape Floss
Tape floss is a creative solution for people who avoid conventional floss. This unique dental floss has a wide, flat surface instead of a thin cord, making it easier to pass between teeth and the gumline. Made from waxed nylon or polythene fiber, it’s an effective form of flossing with better ease-of-use. Many prefer it since it rarely snaps or pinches tissue.
Why Does Flossing Matter?
You wouldn’t wash only half your face or scrub just part of a dirty dish, so why skip flossing? Brushing cleans the visible surfaces of your teeth, but it can’t remove plaque, debris, or bacteria hiding in tight spaces.
Flossing is critical because it helps scrape away buildup that accumulates in dark crevices between teeth, preventing damage from sugar and acids. This action helps your oral health by ensuring you reach every spot where plaque forms.
Floss & Your Health
Flossing and brushing are the foundation of good oral hygiene and health, but seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning twice a year is just as important. Some plaque and build up can only be removed by a hygienist, making proactive care essential for your overall well-being. Just like visiting a doctor, regular dental checkups keep your smile strong and healthy.