Which of the following is a common consequence of improper use of dental floss?

The choice of increased gingival inflammation as a consequence of improper use of dental floss highlights a crucial aspect of oral hygiene. When dental floss is used incorrectly—such as snapping the floss against the gums, using an inadequate technique, or neglecting to wrap the floss correctly around the tooth—this can lead to trauma to the gingival tissue. Such trauma can cause irritation, enabling bacteria to cause inflammation, which leads to gingivitis.

Conversely, decreased plaque accumulation, improved tooth alignment, and reduced cavity risk are not typically associated with improper floss use. In fact, improper flossing does not improve plaque control; in some cases, it can worsen plaque retention by not adequately cleaning the interproximal spaces. Similarly, dental floss does not play a direct role in aligning teeth or reducing cavity risk when used incorrectly; these outcomes generally require professional intervention or correct flossing habits to achieve positive results. Therefore, recognizing the connection between flossing technique and gingival health is key for successful oral hygiene practices.