While there are some people who have a love-hate relationship with flossing, it is a necessary part of good oral hygiene practices. If you abhor traditional dental floss for whatever reason, there are lots of other devices that can get the job done as well. Here are some alternatives to traditional flossing that you might want to consider.

What Is Flossing?
Flossing is a type of oral hygiene that typically involves the use of a waxed string commonly known as dental floss. With this method, you would wrap the string around your fingers on either hand and insert the string in between your teeth. The string is used to dislodge food from between your teeth, and help to reduce bacteria and plaque buildup as well.

The Importance of Flossing
Plaque and bacteria are what contribute to cavities, gum disease, and more. Because brushing can only reach certain areas, it is important to floss, so you can clean in between your teeth and gum line. Even with proper brushing and flossing, you should still visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa, and have a professional cleaning every 6 months. Proper oral hygiene coupled with regular dentist visits, help you stay on top of your oral health.

Alternatives to Traditional Flossing
While flossing is an extremely important part of oral hygiene, there are some people who prefer other methods. If you're interested in alternative ways to floss your teeth, here are some suggestions:

• Floss Picks: This little device is great for keeping your teeth clean when you're out and about. The Y-shaped plastic tool has a pick on one end and dental floss on the other. You can use it to pick your teeth as well as floss them even when you're not at home. They are very convenient to have in your luggage, purse, or backpack as you can store them easily, and toss them out when you're done.

• Water Pick: The water flosser is great for people who do not like the feeling of dental floss between their teeth. Rather than use a string, this tool uses pressurized water to help dislodge food and remove plaque. For this type of flossing, you don't need to do anything other than place the pick where you want it, and turn it on.

• Interdental Brushes: Much easier to use than regular floss, these devices work well for individuals with mobility issues. The brush has a floss head with thin bristles that you insert into your teeth in order to remove food particles and plaque. These can be used multiple times, so that's a plus if you're very environmentally conscious.

• Dental Picks: Similar to an interdental brush, this device typically has small bristles or rubber tines that help to remove plaque and food. These are quite easy to use as well and work just about the same way. One difference is that these come in a pack which makes them great for taking on a trip or with you to a restaurant.

• Sonicare AirFloss: Using a similar concept as the water pick, the Sonicare AirFloss combines water and air. Just turn it on once you have it between your teeth, and it does all of the work for you. The combination of both air and water helps to prevent plaque from settling at your gum line and causing gum disease.

What Happens When You Don’t Floss
Because flossing is what helps to remove plaque and bacteria that you cannot reach with traditional brushing, neglecting to floss allows the plaque and bacteria to buildup. Plaque that goes untreated will eventually turn into tartar which is a hard substance that is difficult to remove on your own. When this happens, you could end up with bad breath, yellow teeth, cavities, and even health problems. For pregnant women, oral bacteria can spread to the baby and cause a low birth weight.

It is important to schedule regular visits with us at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa, so you can make sure your mouth is healthy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! Remember, it is up to you to make sure you are maintaining your oral health in between dentist visits by brushing and flossing regularly. It doesn't take much more than a few extra minutes to add flossing into your oral care routine, and the effort is well worth the payoff.