Consistently taking small, meaningful steps can pave the way for remarkable enhancements in oral health, transforming not just your smile but your overall well-being.
Virginia G. Carrillo, MEd, BSDH, RDH, a distinguished dental hygienist at the esteemed UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry, shared essential insights for individuals aiming to elevate their oral care routines. A fundamental recommendation she emphasizes? Making flossing a regular habit.
“While it’s true that flossing can feel uncomfortable initially—particularly for individuals with tender gums due to inflammation or those unfamiliar with the practice,” Carrillo remarked, “the dedication to integrating it into daily hygiene can lead to a dramatic improvement in the health of teeth and gums, ultimately supporting your overall health.”
In her role as an assistant professor/clinical in the Department of Periodontics’ Division of Dental Hygiene, Carrillo highlights the necessity of customizing flossing techniques based on a patient’s unique age and life circumstances.
“As clinicians, we carefully assess each patient’s dexterity and level of understanding before suggesting specific oral health care tools,” she explained. “With a wide array of floss options available, it’s crucial to assist each patient in selecting one that caters to their particular needs.”
String floss
String floss remains the most traditional and widely used flossing tool, and although various brands populate store shelves, Carrillo underscores that mastering the correct technique is more critical than the brand of floss itself—she champions the c-shape technique as particularly effective.
“C-shape flossing enables the user to maneuver the floss up and down between adjacent teeth, effectively dislodging plaque—an undesirable sticky biofilm that naturally accumulates on the surface of the teeth—and food particles,” Carrillo stated, highlighting the necessity of maintaining proper technique.
To execute the c-shape method effectively, one should take a length of floss approximately the size of their forearm and wrap the ends around each middle finger, allowing the index fingers and thumbs to remain free for better control. Initiate by starting at the back of either the upper or lower jawline, gently guiding the floss between each tooth while ensuring it curves into a c-shape around the side of one tooth. A back-and-forth motion should be employed as you navigate below the gum line and back up again. Before pulling the floss out, ensure to repeat this process on the adjacent tooth.
It’s vital to perform flossing gently, Carrillo cautioned. “Popping the floss into the spaces between teeth could potentially cause trauma to the gums. The c-shape flossing technique is one that takes practice to master, similar to any new skill,” she advised, emphasizing gentle and mindful movements.
Floss picks
For patients who struggle with gripping objects or have difficulty using traditional string floss, Carrillo often suggests using a floss pick as an alternative.
A dental floss pick is a compact, plastic device featuring a curved end that securely holds a short piece of floss, making it easy and comfortable to hold. To use it effectively, the floss section should be positioned gently between teeth using a mild sawing motion. Once inserted, a soft, upwards and downwards movement will assist in loosening plaque.
“I like to explain that the gingival tissues or gums won’t adhere to a dirty tooth—they will recede from the tooth until the bacterial plaque biofilm is effectively eliminated,” Carrillo elaborated. “Toothbrushing is undoubtedly vital, but it doesn’t reach the spaces between teeth, where plaque often hides.”
The bacteria that breed and gather on plaque found within the crevices of teeth and beneath the gum line are primary culprits in causing cavities, gum disease, dental infections, and various other complications.
Water flosser
“Patients with braces face a unique challenge in flossing because they need to navigate around the complex wiring and brackets,” Carrillo pointed out. Dental implants, crowns, and various other dental appliances can also complicate the plaque-removal process.
In such cases, a water flosser may be recommended for patients struggling with traditional flossing methods. This device utilizes a stream of pulsating water to effectively expel debris and clean between dental devices, teeth, and along the gum line.
Carrillo finds that for patients with bridges and implants, combining the use of a water flosser with an alternative flossing technique ensures comprehensive cleaning between teeth.
For optimal usage of a water flosser, she recommends that patients request a demonstration from their dental provider to ensure the device is used properly.
Be true to your teeth
Eddie M. Cortez, DDS
“Brushing your teeth typically cleans only 65% of the exposed surfaces,” elucidated Eddie M. Cortez, DDS, a trusted provider at UT Dentistry’s General Dentistry Clinic. “The remaining 35% is addressed through flossing, which effectively cleans areas between teeth that a toothbrush cannot access.”
Engaging in regular flossing helps to eradicate plaque and protects the bone structure that supports your teeth, playing a critical role in preventing gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis.
Cortez cautions that gum disease is associated with an increased risk for more severe health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, and may also contribute to the progression of these conditions. However, dedicated oral hygiene practices can mitigate these risks.
“Regular flossing reduces the dangers of tooth decay, gum disease, and even persistent bad breath,” he affirmed, underscoring its importance in a daily hygiene regimen.
For individuals who find it challenging to remember to incorporate flossing into their daily routine, Cortez offers several practical strategies:
- Attach the floss to your toothbrush or place it in a visible location.
- Set a daily alarm reminder on your smartphone.
- Post sticky notes on your bathroom mirror as a visible reminder.
“I’ve encountered numerous patients who neglect flossing, ultimately facing the consequences of tartar buildup, bone loss, and cavities,” he expressed. “Be true to your teeth, or they will be false to you—floss daily to protect your smile.”
To discover more information about UT Dentistry’s General Dentistry Clinic, please call 210-567-6453.
**Interview with Virginia G. Carrillo, MEd, BSDH, RDH on Elevating Oral Health through Flossing**
**Editor:** Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Virginia G. Carrillo, a distinguished dental hygienist at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. Virginia, thank you for joining us!
**Virginia Carrillo:** Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the importance of flossing and its impact on oral health.
**Editor:** Let’s dive in. You emphasize the significance of making flossing a daily habit. Can you elaborate on why this practice is essential for maintaining oral health?
**Virginia Carrillo:** Absolutely. Flossing removes dental plaque between teeth—areas that brushing alone can miss. If plaque isn’t removed, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Integrating flossing into your daily routine can significantly enhance the health of your teeth and gums, supporting overall wellness.
**Editor:** Many people find flossing uncomfortable, especially if they have sensitive gums. What’s your advice for those who are hesitant?
**Virginia Carrillo:** It’s true that some individuals may experience discomfort initially. My advice is to be gentle and consistent. Gradually, the gums can become healthier and more resilient. The key is to use the correct technique, such as the c-shape method, which allows for effective plaque removal without trauma to the gums.
**Editor:** Speaking of technique, could you explain the c-shape method in more detail?
**Virginia Carrillo:** Of course! You’d start with about a forearm’s length of floss, wrapping the ends around your middle fingers. This leaves your index fingers and thumbs free for better control. Place the floss between two teeth, curve it into a c-shape around one tooth, and gently slide it up and down to dislodge plaque. Remember to be slow and careful to avoid damaging the gums.
**Editor:** If someone struggles with traditional floss, what alternatives do you recommend?
**Virginia Carrillo:** For individuals who find string floss difficult to handle, I often suggest floss picks or water flossers. Floss picks provide a convenient grip, and water flossers are excellent for reaching tricky areas, especially for those with braces or dental appliances. They can be very effective in cleaning between teeth and along the gum line.
**Editor:** That’s great information. Now, aside from flossing, how important is brushing for oral health?
**Virginia Carrillo:** Brushing is certainly vital, but it’s crucial to remember that it typically cleans only about 65% of tooth surfaces. That’s why flossing is essential to tackle the remaining 35% – the spots that brushing can’t reach. Together, they create a comprehensive oral hygiene routine.
**Editor:** In closing, what message would you like to leave our audience about oral health?
**Virginia Carrillo:** I want to stress that small, consistent steps can lead to significant improvements in oral health. Flossing, brushing, and proper technique are all foundational to achieving a healthier smile and, ultimately, better overall health. Your teeth deserve care, so embrace these habits!
**Editor:** Thank you, Virginia, for your valuable insights on flossing and oral health care. It’s been a pleasure having you!
**Virginia Carrillo:** Thank you! It’s been a pleasure sharing this essential knowledge with everyone.
