What is Regular Floss and Floss Threaders?

Regular Floss

Regular floss is typically found in the following forms:

• Waxed Floss: Nylon floss with a coating of wax that makes it easier to guide between the teeth.
• Unwaxed Floss: Nylon floss. Because there is more friction when guiding between teeth, unwaxed floss tends to be a bit prone to shredding and breaking. 

In order to use regular floss, take a portion of floss - about 12-18 inches in length. Wrap the ends around your middle fingers and use the thumb and first finger to bring the floss between the teeth. Slide the floss all the way around the tooth at the gumline and below. Use your thumbs to pull the floss toward the front of the mouth and wrap a “C” around the tooth. Move it back and forth  and up and down to clean the tight space of any food, debris or plaque. The use your finger to push the floss toward the back of your mouth and form a “C” again and clean.

Floss Threaders

Floss threaders are thin and flexible pieces of plastic that help guide floss between bridges, behind braces, and under retainer bars.

Floss threaders are typically ideal for those who have:

• Bridges and other dental prosthetics
• Braces
• Permanent retainers

In order to use a floss threader, take 12-18 inches of floss and insert it through the loop of the floss threader. Use the threader to pass in tight spaces underneath bridges, behind orthodontic wires, or under a retainer bar. Once it has passed through, remove the floss threader and use the regular floss as you normally would.

Speak with your dentist/hygienist about the floss that is best for you. If you feel that you may benefit from the use of a floss threader, speak with your dentist/hygienist and ask for a demonstration; this will help you ensure that you are using it correctly.. This is the best way to ensure that the spaces between the teeth are free of food, plaque and other harmful debris. Flossing should be done at bedtime, before brushing your teeth. If you get food stuck often, consult your dentist to see if anything can be done to prevent a food trap.

Willow Glen Dental Center: San Jose Dentist

Here at Willow Glen Dental Center, we’re always here to help you best manage your oral health, both at home and in-office.

Willow Glen Dental Center is proud to offer the best dental services in San Jose. For more information about flossing at home or to get scheduled for an appointment in our San Jose dental office, give us a call at (408) 266-6144.