Maintaining oral health involves complying with the cleaning guidelines indicated by specialists. Therefore, it is very important to know the correct use of dental floss as one of the pillars of these recommendations. We will give you some guidelines to comply with the care of teeth and gums.
Types of dental floss
Dental floss, also known as dental floss, is an element for oral cleaning that was born in 1815 in New Orleans, United States. In this city, a dentist recommended that his patients clean their teeth with floss. With the passage of time this instrument was perfected, its use was consolidated after the Second World War. Its function is to eliminate food debris between the teeth to prevent the appearance of bacterial plaque.
At present, the dental floss is made up of a group of plastic or nylon filaments joined in a cylindrical shape forming a resistant material. The idea is to reach places that the toothbrush does not. In the market there are many brands that offer this product. Several types of dental floss are distinguished:
- With or without wax: It is the one that is commonly used. It has a flat surface and is indicated for people with normal interdental spaces. Some contain fluoride. Those with wax and are more resistant slide better.
- Super-floss: It is made specifically for those who have fixed bridges, dentures and orthodontic appliances, among others. Therefore, it has more rigid and other spongy sections. Although depending on the needs can be used by anyone.
- Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): It is made of a material that glides easily like nylon and is less prone to fraying than normal thread.
- 4. Dental tape: It is found with or without wax. It is designed with a flat surface ideal for those with larger interdental spaces.
It is recommended not to buy those that have perfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) that are carcinogenic.
Children and flossing
When the child is 2 or 3 years old it is important that he start flossing in his routine under the supervision of the dentist. Because at this age it is very difficult for them to maintain habits, we must try to teach them by example. Parents have to use it in front of the child, this will reinforce the need to put this custom into practice. A simple way to introduce it into your routine is the use of the dental floss or thread holder. This is because their hands are small and their motor skills are not fully developed. In this period the parents will comply with the steps.
From the age of eight it becomes mandatory. It is useful to turn the task into a fun time, so the child will feel more comfortable. Telling stories about bacteria and germs with the intervention of a superhero usually helps. This way you will concentrate on performing this task to keep your oral health at bay. The prize system is another alternative.