CA
A 28-year-old male asked:
What is the definition or description of: flossing?
5 doctor answers • 10 doctors weighed in

Dr. John Comisianswered
Dentistry 39 years experience
Healthier smiles: Flossing is the process of cleaning food from between the teeth using a "string" of fiber, typically called floss. This floss is flexible so that when passed between the teeth can physically remove trapped food, and clean the surfaces of the teeth that would otherwise not be able to be cleaned with brushing alone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Marielaina Perroneanswered
Cosmetic Dentistry 27 years experience
Flossing is...: The mechanical cleansing of interproximal tooth surfaces with stringlike, waxed or unwaxed dental floss or tape.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Max Arochaanswered
Dentistry 19 years experience
Plaque removing: Flossing is an essential part of the tooth-cleaning process because it removes plaque from between teeth and at the gumline, where gingivitis and periodontal disease often begins.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Allen Zebrackanswered
Dentistry 10 years experience
Cleaning teeth: Flossing is the act of cleaning between the teeth and massaging or excercising your gums to get them into shape and firm.One uses a string like material which is rubbed up and down the side of the tooth 7-10x's per tooth.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Stephen Sandleranswered
Dentistry 50 years experience
Daily teeth cleaning: Flossing is the process of using string or threads (usually specific for this purpose) to loosen food and germs that collect between your teeth. Brushing is only effective on the tongue and cheek sides of a tooth, but cannot get between teeth. When food and germs collect between your teeth, they can cause cavities and gum problems. It is important to use both brushing and flossing.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 16, 2016
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