Dental floss has long been an important ally in keeping teeth healthy since its invention in the 19th century, but just as we’re now all aware of the effectiveness of flossing at preventing plaque and gum disease, we’re just as aware of how annoying it can be to use. While there are certainly some among us with the skill to take a piece of floss and wrap it around and between each tooth like an expert, there are many others who just never could get it right, got frustrated, and ended up back at the dentist being told yet again that they needed to floss more.
Floss picks are a relatively newer invention, having grown in popularity since their introduction in the 1980s, and are designed to overcome the difficulty of use of regular floss. More expensive than dental floss, floss picks come in a pack and are made of a plastic body with floss angled either in a ‘U’ or an ‘F’. Its usage is simple – just slip the floss section between your teeth and use as though it were normal floss held between fingers.
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Okay, so floss picks are easier, but are they just as effective as regular flossing? For the most part the answer is yes. Studies have shown that floss picks are ‘at least as good’ as regular floss for removing plaque. Cleaning the area between your teeth, regardless of method, is a positive thing for your dental health. Some dentists do believe that regular flossing is better at reaching areas floss picks might not be able to, but all agree that floss picks are far superior to not flossing at all.
If you have always wanted to floss more often, but just haven’t been able to muster the skill or the patience, floss picks might be right for you. If you haven’t been flossing as much as you should, and you need to see someone regarding care for your teeth or gums, contact our team and we’ll be happy to help!
Helpful Resources
For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.
Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.
What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?
We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.