Dental Floss or Dental Tape? Which Is Better?
Whether you decide to use dental tape or dental floss, using one or the other is importanl to your oral health. Flossing and using tape will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy. This can work to prevent or help end gum disease such as gingivitis and the more advanced periodontitis. The latter is an especially damaging problem, as it can result in tooth loss if left untreated.
The choice between dental floss or tape is a personal one. It all depends on which you like best. It depends, as well, on which you feel works best for you. The important thing is that you use one or the other each day, in conjunction with regular brushing. An oral irrigator is also a great tool.
The advantage of dental tape, is that it is thicker and bigger. In my opinion, just the pure physics of it, makes it the clear winner to do a better job.
You are, of course, supposed to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Some dentists will tell you to floss twice a day as well, while others say that once is fine. Typically, if you have sensitive gums, you likely have a problem. Healthy gums are not sensitive. Another good tool is an ozone generator. With this device can make an oxygenated mouthwash.
Now, what are the differences between these two dental tools? Well, as most of us know, floss is a thin, waxed or unwaxed string substance which fits between the teeth. It is ideal for getting pieces of food and plaque from between them.
Tape tends to be wider and thicker. Floss can be a bit too thin. That can be a problem for people whose teeth are closely crowded together. Floss tends to fit more easily between tight teeth. Some people even say that it has the ability to remove stains from the teeth.
Whether you decide to use floss or dental tape, make sure you do it regularly. Further more, if doing this makes you gums bleed, talk to your periodontist immediately. Bleeding while flossing is often a sign of gum disease.
Author: Scott Wells
Disclaimer: If you have or think you might have gum disease or any other health problem, please visit your doctor or periodontist for advice, diagnosis and treatment. This article is for information purposes only and does not intend to provide advice, diagnosis or treatment for any health condition. The USFDA has not evaluated statements about any products mentioned in this article.
