A recent study reported in the Journal of Periodontology (August 2008) in a twin study, shows that flossing is beneficial and kills bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Investigators for the New York University College of Dentistry, performed a study using fifty-one pairs of identical twins, ages 12-21 year olds. For this research investigation, all of the identical twins used a manual toothbrush and toothpaste to brush their teeth and tongues. In addition, 1 twin from each pair also flossed their teeth as directed.
Two weeks later, the study investigators, obtains bacteria specimens from each of the study participants’ mouth. The results of the study showed that flossing had a significant effect on oral health, and significantly decreased the quantity of bad bacteria. Investigations using twin are potent, because they tend to have the same habits, and grow-up in the same household. Also, genetics do not influence the study results.
It's important to remove plaque and food debris from around your teeth as this will stop your gums from swelling and becoming infected. If you leave plaque on your teeth it can harden to tartar, which can only be removed by the dentist or hygienist. It is important to keep up your regular appointments so that your teeth can have a thorough cleaning.
What Is the Right Way to Floss?
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Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach - under the gumline and between your teeth. Because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, daily flossing is highly recommended.
To receive maximum benefits from flossing, use the following technique: - Starting with about 18 inches of floss, wind most of the floss around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two of floss to work with
- Holding the floss tautly between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently past the tight contact point between the teeth
- Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gumline. Never snap or force the floss, as this may cut or bruise delicate gum tissue
- Use clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth – don’t forget the back of your last tooth
- To remove the floss, use the same back-and-forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth
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. 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. |
It is also very important to clean around the edges of any crowns, bridges or implants. This can be difficult to do effectively using traditional floss and there are now specialist flosses to do the job thoroughly (such as super floss and specialist floss threaders).
Your gums may bleed or be sore for the first few days that you floss. This should stop once the plaque is broken up and your oral hygiene has improved. If the bleeding does not stop, tell your dentist. It may be that you are not flossing correctly or your teeth and gums may need a more thorough cleaning.
