Using lengths of floss and tape is the traditional method of cleaning between teeth and along the gum line and is ideal for smaller gaps between teeth.

Cleaning between teeth is essential in maintaining healthy teeth and gums and flossing is ideal for smaller gaps between teeth. As well as effectively removing plaque from between teeth and below the gum line the thin nature of these products also means that they pass and clean between the tooth contact points and will help prevent caries. However many people find using floss difficult, time consuming and sometimes painful so below we offer tips on how to make flossing simpler so you can make it a regular part of your oral care regime .

Traditional ‘reel’ floss
Using lengths of floss and tape is the traditional method of cleaning between teeth and along the gum line

How to use:

• Take 12 – 18 inches / 45cm of floss

• 1. Wind the floss around the middle fingers of each hand and hold it tight leaving a gap of about 3 inches / 8 cm.

• 2. Gently glide the floss between your teeth and towards your gum line. Run carefully up and down the side of each tooth, taking care to clean under the gum line to dislodge food and plaque.

• 3. Repeat the process for each space, using a clean section of floss each time. Dentists recommend that flossing should be used as part of your daily dental care regime – preferably at the end of the day before going to bed

Flossing harps
An alternative to flossing with lengths of floss is to use a floss ‘harp’ device. These are rigid plastic products that have a length of floss built in that can be easily manoeuvred around the mouth and then disposed of after use. These can make flossing a much quicker process and make reaching the back teeth much easier than when using traditional floss.

As with traditional floss they should also be used gently and should never be forced between teeth so to avoid gum damage.

Wisdom offer three ‘easy flossing’ products:

• Wisdom Easy Floss – A long handled flosser with disposable floss harps that makes reaching the back teeth incredibly easy.

• Wisdom Clean Between Flossers – A disposable plastic harp with a waxed floss length in one end and a handy toothpick on the other

• Wisdom Easy Slide flossers – A disposable harp design but incorporating a softer PTFE flossing ribbon for excellent gentle cleaning. Ideal for people with delicate gums.

Flossing for the first time
When using any flossing product for the first time you may notice that your gums may bleed a little. This is normal and should stop after one or two uses. If bleeding persists stop flossing and consult your dentist or hygienist.