Pick the Right Products for Pain-Free Flossing

One of the most common reasons people give for not flossing their teeth daily is that they find flossing uncomfortable and even painful. Some people experience bleeding gums after flossing, and this discourages them from continuing with this healthy habit that is an important element of dental hygiene.

Even if you have sensitive gums, you can enjoy pain-free flossing. Instead of the thin, string-like flosses, try a soft floss, such as Oral-B’s Satin Floss. Or try a dental tape, such as Oral-B’s Satin Tape, which is wider than a standard floss. Many people with sensitive gums find that the dental tape is more comfortable and so they are able to benefit from daily flossing as part of a complete oral care routine.

Also, be sure that you are using a soft-bristle brush, so your teeth and gums aren’t irritated when it's time to floss. Use a soft touch with both brushing and flossing—you don’t need to scrub hard with your toothbrush or use a lot of force when you floss to get the benefits, just be sure to brush thoroughly and floss between each tooth. As a wise dentist once said, "You don’t have to floss all your teeth—just the ones you want to keep!" One-sentence capsule: If you have sensitive gums, a soft floss or dental tape is more comfortable than a string-like floss.