Dental floss is gaining influence in Germany. The reason is simple: flossing is a cost-effective and easy way to protect teeth. Caring for them requires only a few minutes a day, but their benefits are priceless.
What is dental floss?
The primary function of floss is to remove plaque, also called dental plaque or biofilm, and food debris from between the teeth. The primary function of dental floss is to remove plaque, also called dental plaque or biofilm, as well as food debris in the spaces between teeth. Cleaning with a toothbrush only reaches about 70% of the dental apparatus, which is mainly the surfaces of the teeth. Much less obvious, but just as dangerous to our health, are the interdental spaces. Dental floss is not a new invention. As early as 1815, according to Wikipedia, the American dentist Levi Parmly recommended additional cleaning with dental floss. However, the silk threads used at that time were not very stable and broke easily. Nowadays, plastics, such as nylon or polyethylene, are more popular due to their strength.
Shapes, types and styles
The choice in dental floss is varied. Floss offered is waxed or unwaxed. The waxed floss is coated with wax or Teflon. It glides more easily through narrow interdental spaces and is therefore particularly popular with beginners. The unwaxed floss has a greater cleaning effect due to its rough surface. On the negative side, it tears more easily and small threads can get caught in the gaps. Both types of floss come in different flavors. Round floss or interdental floss is a next selection criterion. The difference lies in the size. Round floss is narrower, making it suitable for tight spaces, while an interdental band is wider and suitable for larger spaces. Floss may have fluoride or chlorhexidine added. Chlorhexidine fights bacteria and fluoride fights cavities, but in both cases the dose is small due to the floss’s size.
Structure, function and mode of action
In many cases, flossing is ineffective due to incorrect use. For successful removal of unwanted food debris, a piece of dental floss about 50cm long is sufficient. It is held between the index finger and thumb of the respective hand. As soon as the two hands are removed from each other, tension is created. Next, move the floss into a space, place the thread around the tooth in a C-shape and slide along the tooth to the gum. The floss scrapes unwanted debris from the interdental spaces. In the beginning, bleeding gums may occur. This indicates an already existing inflammation of the gums and is an indication that a more thorough cleaning is needed. However, bleeding gums should not be underestimated. If symptoms persist, you should therefore consult a dentist. The following steps are recommended for effective cleaning: First, floss the interdental spaces, followed by brushing and, as a final step, a mouth rinse. Most dentists advise flossing once a day. This takes a few minutes, in which you get a lot of benefit for little effort. Keep in mind that interdental spaces are a haven for bacteria: Heat, darkness and moisture.
Medical and health benefits
Bacterial plaque, if not treated, leads to tooth decay. Another consequence is inflammation of the gums: gingivitis. While tooth decay and gingivitis are treatable to some degree, the next condition is far more serious. Periodontitis is a bacterial disease of the dental apparatus that, if left untreated, will lead to irreversible bone loss, resulting in loosening of the teeth. Another, less obvious side effect, according to one study, is the possibility of bacteria from the oral environment attaching themselves to the inner wall of the heart via the bloodstream. This can lead to endocarditis in some circumstances. Another point is that inadequate oral hygiene also leads to aesthetic problems. Bad breath can also be caused by rotting food residues. Discoloration of the tooth due to hardened plaque. Both can be prevented by daily flossing. Whether purely for the sake of beauty, pain prevention or fear of the next dental bill, prophylaxis is the safest way to healthy teeth.And this includes the daily use of dental floss.
