Dr Rhona Eskander, owner of Chelsea Dental Clinic, has shared the products you should try out and avoid if you struggle to clean in between your teeth with traditional dental floss
A dentist has shared the next best tool to use to clean between your teeth when you struggle with traditional flossing. Dr Rhona Eskander, who runs Chelsea Dental Clinic, has hit social media to share her advice on what products to use and which ones to give a wide berth.
In her TikTok clip, she penned: “If you struggle to floss properly, don’t worry – most people do! As a dentist, here are my go-to recommendations to keep those gaps clean and your gums happy.”
She kicks off by reminding her 108,000 followers of the significance of cleaning between your teeth.
She explains: “It prevents cavities and instead of floss you can look at using interdental aids. This can include things like TePes, which come in different sizes. You’ve got them for smaller gaps and then they go up in size until you get into the larger gaps.”
For those who aren’t keen on the sensation of metal and bristles, she mentions that plastic alternatives exist but cautions her audience that these aren’t eco-friendly.
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Dr Eskander then expresses her disapproval of bamboo sticks, warning: “they can injure the gums” and claiming they’re “not that effective for cleaning between the teeth”.
Reacting to her video, one viewer commented: “Because of braces, the smallest ones do not fit between my teeth.”
Another chimed in with: “Boots need to start charging you rent.” Meanwhile, a curious follower inquired: “What do you think about water flossers?”.
The NHS has highlighted that flossing is not just about removing food stuck between your teeth; it’s also a crucial step in reducing the risk of gum disease and halitosis.
How to use dental floss:
- Take 30cm to 45cm of floss or dental tape and grasp it so you have 3cm or 4cm of floss taut between your hands.
- Slip the floss or dental tape between the teeth and into the area between your teeth and gums, as far as it’ll go.
- Floss with 8 to 10 strokes, up and down between each tooth, to dislodge food and plaque.
The health service has shared tips on using interdental brushes, stating: “You can use interdental brushes or single-tufted brushes instead of flossing, especially if there are gaps between your teeth.
“The brush should fit snugly between the teeth. Never use toothpicks to remove trapped food from between your teeth as you may damage your gums, which could lead to an infection.
“Your dentist or hygienist can advise you on the best way to clean between your teeth.”
Moreover, after brushing, it’s advised not to rinse your mouth immediately to avoid washing away the fluoride-rich toothpaste residue.
Their guidance continues: “Make sure you clean all the surfaces of all your teeth, which should take about two minutes. Remember to brush the inside surfaces, outside surfaces and the chewing surfaces of your teeth.”
Should you have any dental concerns, it’s recommended to book an appointment with your dentist promptly.