Floss Picks FAQs
Northside Dental Clinic is a top dentist office in Springfield, Missouri. Our doctors have decades of experience, and we’re here to help you with your oral hygiene! Today, we answer frequently asked questions about floss picks.
Are floss picks good for flossing?
Yes, they are good for flossing. But regular, traditional dental floss is recommended by dental professionals.
Why are floss picks bad?
Using floss picks is not as good as traditional floss because they keep using the same piece of floss over and over again, which may cause bacteria to spread from one part of your mouth to another.
Why is traditional floss better than floss picks?
Traditional floss allows you to move to new sections of floss from start to finish.
Can you reuse floss picks?
You can use one floss pick for every time you floss. You do not have to get a new pick for every tooth in your mouth.
Should you use floss picks before or after brushing?
It’s best to floss before brushing your teeth because your toothpaste and toothbrush can move away any food debris, saliva, and bacteria to leave your mouth as clean as possible after your oral hygiene routine.
Should you use mouthwash after using a floss pick?
It is best to follow the directions on the bottle of mouthwash for optimal results. Some mouthwashes should be used before brushing, while others should be used afterward.
Who benefits most from floss picks?
- People with arthritis
- People with dexterity problems
Does the American Dental Association (ADA) accept floss picks as viable products?
Yes, the American Dental Association (ADA) has a shopping list of accepted products, and there are three floss pick varieties from DenTek on that list. These products have been on the accepted list since the second quarter of 2018. The agency confirms that these items have shown efficacy in removing plaque between teeth and helping to prevent (and reduce) gingivitis.
How do you use a floss pick?
- Gently slide the floss up and down in between two teeth.
- Lightly press against the gum to get every space in between teeth.
- Allow the floss to wrap around teeth.
- Clean above and below the gumline.
- Reverse the pick to use the pointed end in an up-and-down motion to dislodge large particles of food and stimulate gums.
How many times should you floss with a floss pick per day?
Dentists recommend flossing at least once per day for best results.
Can a dentist show me how to use a floss pick?
Absolutely! Your dentist or dental hygienist would be happy to help you understand how to use a floss pick properly. We’ll hold up a mirror so you can watch how we clean your teeth with these handy tools, so you can do the same thing at home.
Have any more questions? Reach out to Northside Dental Clinic or call (417) 862-2468.