Failing to seek timely dental care and treatment can lead to a slew of oral health complications. These can range anywhere from a mild toothache or chipped tooth to a severe cavity or infected teeth roots. As such, your dentist advocates seeking treatment sooner rather than later. Bear in mind, however, that excellent oral health begins with adhering to an at-home routine, and it is critical you do not miss any steps. In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS dentist takes a look at different methods for flossing, and what the pros and cons of each method are.
String Floss
Believe it or not, there are a variety of resources out there that can help you when it comes to providing effective dental care at home. Among these, products that help you remove stuck food particles and other microorganisms contain a number of options, in particular. But how can you tell which one will offer the most protection for your smile in the most sustainable manner?
Beginning with the classics, string floss comes with a variety of options. For example, string floss can come waxed, unwaxed, long spools of continuous thread, and more. Further, there are a number of benefits and cons to utilizing traditional string floss. Some of the benefits are that it allows you to properly remove lodged food particles, as well as remove the sticky layer of plaque from the surfaces of teeth.
As far as cons go, however, some individuals argue that string floss is too harsh on their gums. Other concerns that arise include difficulty reaching certain areas of the mouth, difficulty getting between structures that are close together, and issues of proper use. To learn more about this process, reach out to our team today.
Handheld Floss
Handheld floss differs from traditional spools, as they often consist of a small plastic device with a piece of floss that has been already threaded through. These options provide a number of benefits, including easier use due to the ability to better hold the device. Additionally, this allows for better access to structures located further back in the mouth.
In terms of cons, the design can make it more challenging to use proper techniques. Further, the use of a single piece of floss can lead to a less clean oral environment.
WaterPik
WaterPiks can be useful for reaching difficult to access areas of the mouth, as well as keeping breath fresher for longer. On the other hand, the rinsing action as the primary method for care may not be enough to remove plaque completely from the surfaces of your teeth.
What to Keep in Mind
To learn more about what oral health care options can best benefit you, contact Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling 913-681-5500 today.
