Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition that can easily become infected without proper care. Fortunately, there is a simple trick that can help relieve the pain caused by ingrown toenails. In this article, we will discuss how to use dental floss to alleviate ingrown toenail pain and protect your clients.
The Dental Floss Trick for Ingrown Toenails
Using dental floss to treat ingrown toenail pain is a simple and effective technique that can be done at home or by a nail technician. The trick involves using flat dental floss to reduce the pressure on the affected area and prevent further irritation.
Choosing the Right Dental Floss
It's important to use the right type of dental floss when treating ingrown toenail pain. Flat dental floss is recommended over the rounded ones, as the latter can cause onycholysis. Also, ensure that the floss is sanitized to avoid any risk of infection.
Applying the Dental Floss
To apply the dental floss, gently insert three to ten threads into the affected area. Be careful not to push or press too hard, as this could cause further irritation. Once the dental floss is in place, connect the threads together to prevent them from slipping out.
Using Medical Glue
To keep the dental floss in place, apply medical glue to the affected area. This glue is similar to the one used to seal wounds and will harden quickly on the air, forming a hard substance that can last for four to seven days. While the product may be yellowish-brown in color and not removable with water, it provides effective protection against further irritation.
When to Remove the Dental Floss?
The length of time you should leave the dental floss in place depends on the client's condition. Once the pressure and tension in the affected area are reduced, it's safe to remove the dental floss. Additionally, clients should avoid wearing tight or narrow shoes that can exacerbate the problem.
Ingrown toenails can be painful and lead to further complications if left untreated. However, using dental floss to relieve the pain caused by ingrown toenails is a simple and effective technique that can be done at home or by a nail technician. If you have an infected ingrown toenail, it's best to seek professional help. Otherwise, give the dental floss trick a try and see if it helps alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by ingrown toenails.