Cleaning between your teeth is extremely important. No matter how well and often you brush, and no matter what kind of mouthwash you use, it is vital that also you clean between your teeth. Plaque, tartar, food debris and acids can build up in those spaces, and they can eventually cause gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss.
The best way to clean between your teeth is with traditional dental floss. However, some people may have trouble holding a toothbrush or have a range of motion issues with their arms. In those cases, a water flosser can be of assistance. Water flossers can also be used by people who have braces, a fixed retainer or a bridge, which can be difficult to reach with regular dental floss. Water flossers use a pulse of water to reach between your teeth to remove harmful material. While they can be effective at cleaning your teeth and preventing gum disease, you should try using regular floss whenever possible, and a floss threader can also be used to clean around dental work.
The best water flossers will have the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. But before you decide to switch from regular dental floss to a water flosser, you should see Dr. Steven J. Brazis for an exam and a consultation. The dentist can either recommend a particular product or make other suggestions about how to best clean between your teeth. If you have questions about oral hygiene and you live in the Sacramento, California, area, call Steven J. Brazis, DDS at 916-731-5151 to schedule an appointment.
