Optimal oral health doesn’t just come from daily brushing and rinsing, but also depends on another important factor. A toothbrush, no matter how good, cannot reach into tight interdental spaces. This article from My Auris will provide detailed instructions on flossing techniques, introduce common types of dental floss on the market such as waxed floss, unwaxed floss, floss for people with braces, and important tips to achieve optimal effectiveness.
Oral-B Essential Floss is an optimal solution that helps clean food debris and plaque between teeth, supporting the maintenance of optimal oral health. With a length of 50m, the product is compactly wound in a small box, making it extremely easy to carry and convenient anywhere, anytime – you can use it whenever needed without taking up much space.
Unlike regular brushing, which does not completely remove food debris stuck between teeth, especially in those deep within the mouth, dental floss is the oral hygiene method recommended by dentists. While many people still have the habit of using bamboo or wooden toothpicks to remove food between their teeth, this is actually not a good method. Incorrect use of toothpicks can easily damage the gums, leading to root infections and creating increasingly large gaps between teeth – seriously affecting both aesthetics and chewing function.
Recommended by experts and the American Dental Association, Oral-B Essential Floss is a clinically proven product that effectively removes food debris and up to 80% of plaque. As a result, the product helps prevent gum disease, and is recommended for preventing gingivitis and effective plaque buildup.
Regular use of dental floss not only supports oral care but also brings special benefits to users, especially those undergoing orthodontic treatment. In addition, its compact design, suitable for carrying anywhere, helps you proactively care for your oral health and feel more confident in daily communication with a comfortable feeling and fresh breath.
Oral-B Dental Floss
How many types of Oral-B Dental Floss are there?
Currently, Oral-B dental floss comes in 2 popular types, suitable for various oral care needs.
Oraltana dental floss belongs to the group of nylon floss or multifilament floss. This type can be waxed nylon floss or unwaxed nylon floss, allowing users to easily choose according to their preference. Additionally, some products have light, pleasant scents, creating a comfortable feeling during use. However, due to its multifilament nylon structure, this type of floss can fray or tear when passing through tight interdental spaces – especially in crowded or uneven teeth.
In contrast, Dentana dental floss stands out with its PTFE floss design, also known as monofilament or single-strand floss (PTFE). Its prominent advantage is its ability to glide easily, even in extremely tight interdental spaces, and it rarely frays during use.
Regardless of the type, if used correctly, both are very effective at cleaning plaque and food particles, helping to prevent tooth decay and gingivitis effectively.
How to use Oral-B Spooled Dental Floss
Oral-B spooled dental floss is a popular choice, suitable for many users. Follow the steps below:
Prepare the dental floss:
Cut a piece of dental floss approximately 45 – 60cm long; this is the ideal length for easy handling.
Wind the floss around your middle fingers, leaving about 3 – 5cm of floss in the middle. This method helps you control the floss, preventing it from coiling or tangling during use.
Insert the floss into the interdental space:
Hold the floss with your thumbs and index fingers, pulling it taut just enough.
Gently guide the floss into each interdental space, avoiding excessive pressure on the gums.
Use gentle up-and-down motions to clean the interdental space.
Clean plaque:
Move the floss up and down between teeth to remove plaque and food debris.
Absolutely do not push hard or pull strongly, to avoid damaging the gums.
Use a new section of floss for each interdental space to ensure the best hygiene and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Complete the process:
Rinse your mouth with clean water or mouthwash to remove any remaining debris and bacteria.
Do not let the floss fall out and remember to discard used floss in the trash.
how to use oral b dental floss
How to use dental floss picks – A convenient, easy-to-use option
Dental floss picks are ideal for busy individuals, offering simple and easy-to-control operation.
Get a dental floss pick:
Open the box of dental floss picks, hold the body of the pick firmly to prepare for use.
Guide the floss tip into the interdental space, position it correctly, being careful not to harm the gums.
Clean interdental spaces:
Move the pick gently up and down, similar to using spooled floss, to remove plaque and food debris.
Use a new pick for each interdental space to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Complete the process:
Rinse your mouth with clean water or mouthwash to remove any remaining bacteria.
Properly dispose of used floss picks in the trash, ensuring optimal hygiene.
Guide to using dental floss for people with braces
For individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, dental floss usage instructions need to be adjusted to avoid damaging braces and archwires.
Choose the right type of dental floss:
Prioritize waxed dental floss with strong, durable strands to avoid tearing or getting caught in braces.
Wax helps reduce friction, protect gums, and limit irritation.
Perform gentle actions:
Cut a sufficient length of floss (30 – 45cm), not too long to avoid obstruction.
Operate carefully, guiding the floss slowly into each interdental space.
Clean around braces:
Gently insert the floss into each interdental space; absolutely do not pull hard, which could break braces or damage archwires.
Move it up and down to remove plaque while protecting gums and orthodontic appliances.
Complete the process:
Rinse your mouth with clean water or mouthwash.
Check and clean your braces; if anything abnormal is noticed, you should visit a dentist for regular check-ups.