07 Apr Is daily flossing really that important?
Many people don’t realize that when you brush you only reach about two thirds of the surfaces of your teeth. The remaining third is located between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. That is why flossing is important; dental floss reaches in between teeth removing food debris your toothbrush missed. Your dentist is not nagging when the subject of flossing comes up. When performed daily, the act of flossing cleans between teeth, and when done correctly, invigorates gum tissue helping keep teeth and gum tissue healthy.
The Right Way to Floss
You mean there is a wrong way? While any flossing is better than none, using the correct technique improves the health of teeth and gums.
Wrap floss around the fingers you feel most comfortable using. Slide floss up and down along the surfaces between teeth being careful to clean around the base of teeth along the gum line.
Move floss along using a new section with each tooth. Certain flosses may shred especially if there is minimal space between teeth. Sampling different varieties will find one that works best for you.
Gum Disease and Flossing
Many patients argue that flossing makes their gums bleed; however, bleeding gums are usually a sign that gum disease is present. Your dentist should be consulted if your gum tissue bleeds when flossing. It may be your technique, but if you are developing gingivitis it is best to be seen right away. If caught early, this is a very treatable condition with daily flossing being a useful tool.
Daily flossing will help control plaque build-up, a leading cause of dental decay and gum disease.
What type of floss is best?
Whichever type you will use regularly is the one that is best for you. There are multiple varieties from plain or flavored, waxed or unwaxed, floss tape or string, floss threaders or floss picks … there is even an electric flosser. Patients who have trouble maneuvering floss may benefit from the electric model, but understand there is a learning curve so don’t give up on it if it feels a little awkward at first.
Patients wearing braces or with dental work in place may benefit from a demonstration from their dentist on how to floss most effectively.
For additional tips or to schedule your next visit, contact our team at The Dental Place today.