Flossing DOES work, but only if you do it properly

FLOSSING is an essential part of most people’s oral health routine. But recent studies have suggested it might be of little benefit.

According to a 2016 review of 25 studies on flossing, it can be ‘of little value’. But experts say the problem lies with the way we floss.

‘Flossing once a day can help prevent the build-up of plaque,’ says hygienist Bernita Shelley.

‘Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth when saliva, food and bacteria in the mouth combine. If plaque isn’t removed, it can harden, damaging tooth enamel. Over time, the bacteria in plaque can irritate the gums and infect them, causing gum disease.

‘But most people don’t know how to floss properly and just move the string aimlessly in between their teeth.’

The ideal way to do it is to wrap the floss around each middle finger until only roughly five centimetres is left in the middle, pulled tight. Then move the floss between the teeth, making sure to curve the floss so it wraps against each side of the tooth. Move the floss both up and down under the gum line and side to side, flicking out the gunk in between. And every time you move from tooth to tooth, use a clean section of floss.

Experts also recommend using an interdental brush, such as the TePe. But these can irritate gums, so should be used only once a day. Don’t make the mistake of brushing before flossing. Floss first and then you brush away any bacteria dislodged by the flossing.

And don’t be put off if you bleed. ‘Bleeding can be the first sign of gum disease,’ says Shelley. ‘It means the gum is reacting with the bacteria on the tooth and becoming irritated. But if you keep flossing for a couple of weeks to remove the bacteria, the bleeding should subside.’

Those who struggle to reach certain areas of the teeth may benefit from using a dental water jet — a battery-operated device that clears debris between the teeth using a pressurised water stream.