What is superfloss
Superfloss is a special type of dental floss designed to help people with specific dental needs effectively clean their teeth and gums. It is often recommended for individuals who have braces, dental bridges, dental implants, or wide gaps between their teeth. Superfloss typically consists of three unique components in a single strand of floss:
1. Rigid End (Stiffened Threader): One end of superfloss is a stiffened or rigid threader. This section is designed to help guide the floss through dental appliances, such as braces or under bridges.
2. Spongy Middle Section: The middle part of superfloss is spongy or fluffy. This section is used to clean around braces, dental implants, or wide gaps between teeth. The texture of this portion helps remove plaque and food particles effectively.
3. Regular Floss: The other end of superfloss is traditional dental floss, typically made of nylon or Teflon. This section is used for cleaning between teeth and along the gumline, just like regular dental floss.
Here's how to use superfloss effectively, depending on your specific needs:
For Braces:
1. Take a length of superfloss (usually about 18 inches or 45 cm) and thread the rigid end through the wires of your braces. The stiffened end makes it easier to guide the floss between your teeth and braces.
2. Once the floss is threaded through, gently slide it up and down between each tooth and along the gumline. Be careful not to apply too much force to avoid damaging your braces or wires.
3. Repeat this process for each tooth, using a clean section of superfloss between teeth.
For Dental Bridges or Implants:
1. Thread the stiffened end of superfloss under the dental bridge or around the dental implant by gently guiding it through the gap or under the appliance.
2. Once you have threaded the floss through, hold both ends of the floss and move it in a sawing motion to clean the space between the bridge or implant and the adjacent natural tooth.
3. Slide the spongy middle section of superfloss up and down along the abutment tooth (the natural tooth next to the bridge or implant) and beneath the bridge or around the implant to remove plaque and debris.
4. Repeat this process for each tooth with a dental bridge or implant.
For Wide Tooth Gaps or Other Dental Appliances:
1. Thread the stiffened end of superfloss through the gap between your teeth or around any dental appliance, such as a spacer or retainer.
2. Use the spongy middle section to clean the areas around the gap or appliance by sliding the floss up and down and along the gumline.
3. Repeat this process for each gap or dental appliance.
Regular and thorough dental hygiene, including flossing, is essential for maintaining good oral health. Superfloss is a helpful tool for those with specific dental needs to ensure effective cleaning in areas that may be challenging to reach with regular dental floss. It's important to use superfloss as directed by your dentist or orthodontist to avoid damaging dental appliances or dental work.