Dental flossing is a crucial part of maintaining oral hygiene. However, traditional dental floss often has environmental impacts that are not widely recognized.
What are the Environmental Impacts of Traditional Dental Floss?
Traditional dental floss is typically made of nylon or Teflon, both of which are non-biodegradable materials. Once used, the floss ends up in landfills, where it takes hundreds of years to break down. This contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in the environment.
Moreover, the production of traditional dental floss requires the use of non-renewable resources and can lead to emissions of greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. Additionally, the packaging of traditional dental floss often involves plastic materials, further increasing its environmental footprint.
Proper Technique for Flossing Between Teeth
While it's essential to floss regularly, it's equally important to ensure that you are using the correct technique for flossing between your teeth. Proper flossing technique helps to effectively remove plaque and food debris, thus contributing to better oral health.
Steps for Proper Flossing Technique:
- Step 1: Use about 18 inches of floss, winding the majority of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This allows for a fresh section of floss to be used as you move between teeth.
- Step 2: Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, and gently guide it between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion
- Step 3: Curve the floss into a 'C' shape against one tooth and gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
- Step 4: Gently move the floss up and down against the side of the tooth to remove any plaque and debris. Be sure to floss the back side of each tooth as well.
- Step 5: Repeat the process for each tooth, using a fresh section of floss each time.
Flossing Techniques
There are various flossing techniques that cater to different individuals' needs. These techniques include:
- Waxed Flossing: Suitable for people with closely spaced teeth or those who struggle with shredding floss.
- Unwaxed Flossing: Ideal for people with normal spacing between their teeth. It may produce a squeaking sound to indicate clean teeth.
- Floss Picks: These disposable plastic tools have a flossing end and a pick end, making it easier for some individuals to maneuver between teeth.
- Water Flossers: A more eco-friendly alternative that uses a stream of water to clean between teeth without producing waste. These devices are especially suitable for people with braces or dental work.