The importance of brushing teeth in the morning and evening has been deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. Therefore, we must brush our teeth after we get up and before going to bed. But in between those few hours, we would eat and drink. It’s natural for food particles to get lodged in your teeth. Sometimes rinsing helps, but if a toothpick is readily available, most people will end up using it. Some people carry dental floss to remove stubborn food debris. Is dental floss better than toothpicks? Let’s hear what the experts have to say about it.
To find out if dental floss is better than a toothpick, Health Shots reached out to Gurgaon-based prosthodontist Dr Shveta Setia Thareja.
After Meal Cleaning Tools
Some people have a habit of using dental floss or toothpicks after meals to maintain oral hygiene. While both dental floss and toothpicks can be used as after-meal cleaning tools, their effectiveness and suitability vary. Flossing is often considered a better option because it can reach the tight spaces between teeth where food particles and plaque collect, Dr. Tareja said. Flossing removes debris and helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Toothpicks, on the other hand, are better at removing large food particles trapped between teeth, but they may not be effective at removing plaque or reaching deep crevices.
Toothpick vs dental floss
When it comes to oral hygiene, both toothpicks and dental floss have their pros and cons. Toothpicks are a quick and easy way to remove larger food debris from between your teeth. Even then, they may not be successful in cleaning tight spots or removing plaque. Floss, on the other hand, reaches areas that toothpicks can’t, eliminating debris and reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
Flossing is very effective, but requires more time and skill. Also, improper use of toothpicks or floss may cause discomfort or injury to the gums.
A balanced strategy that includes both instruments can optimize dental health, experts say. Dental floss can be used as the main method of thorough cleaning, and toothpicks can be used optionally if necessary.
Is water flossing better for dental care?
A flosser, known by dentists as an oral irrigator, is an alternative to standard floss and toothpicks. It uses a jet of water to remove dirt and plaque between teeth and along the gum line, says Dr Thareja. Water flossing is great for people with braces, implants or sensitive gums.
It provides a gentle and effective cleaning routine that reaches areas that floss and toothpicks may miss. However, using the wrong water flosser can cause serious health problems. Too much pressure or poor technique can damage the gums and even push bacteria deep into the gums. Therefore, instructions must be followed and a dental professional consulted for safe and effective use.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Whether it’s dental floss or toothpicks, it’s useful to incorporate them into your oral hygiene routine. But for strong, healthy teeth and gums, you need to do more. Here are some helpful tips:
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush when you brush your teeth twice a day. This will ensure your gum line and all tooth surfaces are clean.
• Consider using an antibiotic mouthwash to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
• Eating a balanced diet promotes overall dental health, and reducing sugary and acidic foods and drinks can help prevent cavities.
• Get a dental check-up every six months for professional cleaning, early detection of problems and doctor’s advice.
Follow these tips to keep your dental hygiene in good shape.
