Do you always brush your teeth in the morning and at night? If so, this is a great habit you have, but did you know that flossing is also an important habit? Flossing is something people often view as an optional daily habit, but it really is an important part of your daily oral care, and here are some things to know about flossing your teeth.
The Purpose and Importance of It
If you currently do not floss, it might be because you do not realize how important it is. It could also be because you do not feel comfortable flossing. After all, it can be hard to do. The problem with not flossing is that you are putting your teeth at risk. Flossing is something that can remove plaque from your teeth in all the areas where your toothbrush cannot. If you fight plaque through your daily oral habits, you might not ever experience cavities or gum disease in your mouth.
The Best Time to Do It
If you floss at least once a day, it is better than nothing, but there really is a best time to do this habit. The best time is at night before bed. You should develop a habit of brushing your teeth first, flossing, and then using a mouth rinse. If you floss just before you go to sleep, you will leave your mouth cleaner all night long.
The Types of Floss You Can Choose From
There are three main options to choose from in terms of floss, and the first is the traditional type. This is the type that comes on a roll, and you pull out a piece and snip it off. Flossing this way is highly effective, but the other options are too. Some people prefer to use floss picks, and this is the second option you have. Using a floss pick is relatively the same as using regular floss, except that it is easier to use. The third choice is a water flosser, and this does not involve any floss at all. Instead, it uses water to floss the teeth by spraying pressurized water into your mouth.
Do you now understand why you should floss and when to floss? If so, you should begin developing this habit if you want to fully protect your teeth. If you have questions about floss types or how to properly use floss, talk to a dentist.