Oral Health: Flossing Your Teeth

Tools for Flossing Teeth

While waxed dental floss is traditionally used to clean between teeth, other tools and products are available to enhance your oral care routine. Common flossing tools your dentist may recommend include:

• Dental string floss: Traditional floss is an inexpensive tool that effectively cleans between the teeth and under the gumline. However, it may not be the best choice for people with dexterity issues or orthodontic gear.

• Floss picks: A floss pick is a small plastic handle that has a short strand of floss stretched across it. These are particularly helpful for children or older adults who struggle to hold string dental floss correctly.

• Water flossers: A water flosser, such as a Waterpik, uses a strong stream of pressurized water to dislodge bacteria, plaque, and food between the teeth. Their ease and convenience make water flossers a popular alternative to string floss.

• Floss threaders: It can be challenging to floss around braces, bridges, and other dental work. A floss threader is a loop of thin material that can pull floss underneath or around fixed orthodontic gear or bridgework.

• Interproximal brushes: If you have wider gaps between your teeth, an interproximal brush can clean these areas. The narrow brush can fit between the teeth, removing plaque that a toothbrush can miss.

• Orthodontic flosser picks: Similar to floss picks, an orthodontic flosser is a plastic tool with dental floss attached. However, these flossers are strategically shaped to fit around brackets and wires for easier cleaning.
• Rubber-tipped gum stimulators: If you have gum disease or other gum issues, a gum stimulator helps increase blood flow and strengthen gum tissue while removing plaque and food particles.

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Neighborhoods We Serve in Las Vegas 

At Absolute Dental, we’re proud to provide comprehensive dental care to families across Las Vegas. Whether you’re in need of teeth cleaning, cosmetic dentistry, braces, or pediatric dental care, we’ve got you covered. From general care to emergency dental services, we’re here to help you and your loved ones maintain healthy, beautiful smiles, with convenient locations in your neighborhood. 

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Why Do Your Teeth Hurt After Flossing?

Some patients complain that their teeth hurt after flossing, and skip this essential step due to the discomfort. If you have pain and bleeding while flossing, there may be an underlying condition that is causing these symptoms, such as:

• Gingivitis: Plaque and bacteria under the gums can cause inflammation, making your gums tender and prone to bleeding.

• Cavities: Tooth decay and cavities damage teeth, making them more sensitive than usual. Flossing around these teeth can cause pain.

• Gum recession: If your gums have receded, the tooth root may become exposed. Roots have less tooth enamel to protect them, making these areas more sensitive.
• Damaged tooth enamel: Worn tooth enamel can make teeth more sensitive while flossing.

However, you may experience pain after flossing because it’s a new routine, or you’re using improper techniques. If you haven’t flossed in a while, your gums may feel sore as you adjust to the process. Follow the proper steps for flossing to minimize pain.

To help with flossing pain, rinse with warm salt water, apply a cold compress, or take over-the-counter pain medication until the discomfort subsides. Also, consider switching to a water flosser, or other flossing tool that will help with sensitivity.

Does Flossing Create Gaps in Teeth?

No, flossing does not lead to gaps between teeth. Dental floss is very thin and flexible, so it can easily fit in tight spaces. Flossing is actually a vital part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy, which can prevent teeth from shifting.

Flossing With Braces

Flossing with braces is tricky if you don’t have the right tools or use the proper techniques. Your orthodontist will likely recommend using an orthodontic pick or water flosser to remove the buildup between teeth and around the brackets and wires. Ask your dentist for more essential care tips for metal braces.

Keep Your Teeth Healthy With Absolute Dental

If you want to enhance your oral health, flossing your teeth is something you can start doing today to keep your teeth healthy and radiant. Absolute Dental can help you prioritize your smile with affordable treatments and personalized care. 

Contact us to make an appointment today.