Monday, 24 June 2013

USE DENTAL FLOSS NOT TOOTHPICK


dental floss

Dental floss with a plastic holder
Dental floss is a thin filament or nylon used to clean in between the teeth (interdental cleaning). It gets rid of food debris and plague which may serve as breeding ground for microbes and subsequent decalcification of teeth and destruction of the periodontium. Interdental cleaning can be done with the aid of interdental toothbrushes as well as dental floss however dental floss offers the best option in an easy and hygienic form at home and at the dental office. Dental floss is made in nylon, silk, and dispensed in plastics as ropes or attached to plastic holders for ease of application on the teeth.

The traditional way of cleaning in between the teeth involves the use of toothpick after food especially when meat stuck in between the teeth. Toothpicks are made from wood with two sharp ends. The use of toothpick can be detrimental to the health of oral soft and hard (gum &teeth) tissues due to improper use.

Importance of flossing

-Due to its width and flexibility it can pass in between the teeth with ease irrespective of the degree of crowding to clean the debris stuck to the teeth.

-Lack of interdental cleaning increases susceptibility to interdental caries and periodontal diseases which are the commonest forms of chronic dental diseases.

-Advanced restorative procedures like bridge and implants require utmost cleanliness of the oral cavity to prevent failure.

-Orthodontic appliances in the mouth increases susceptibility to plaque formation, this needs to be cleaned regularly with both tooth brush and interdental cleaning towards the success of the treatment.


Disadvantages of tooth picking

-Tooth pick hygiene is queried in terms of manufacturing and keeping.

-several improvised toothpicks exist with varying thickness that can damage the gum.

-improper use of tooth pick causes periodontal bone destruction, this in turn allows for spread of infection into the periodontium, hence abscess formation and eventual tooth loss.

 
Toothpicks

Caution

Be careful when you floss as improper technique of use may cause your gum to bleed.

Though it stops immediately, it is advisable to follow your dentist’s instructions on flossing.

Daily flossing is recommended.

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