Are You Remembering To Floss?

Woman flossing. Caption: flossing should be a prominent part of your oral health routine.

FLOSSING IS A KEY COMPONENT in your personal dental care. However, it may not always be the most convenient.

Why Should I Floss?

Brushing and flossing are more effective than brushing alone. This may seem like a no-brainer, but many people still do not regularly floss. A toothbrush does a great job at removing the plaque from open surfaces, but does little good cleaning in between the teeth. If you only brush then you miss 35% of the surface area of your teeth.

Flossing protects your gums. It is your first defense against gum disease. If unchecked, gum disease can lead to red swollen gums, bleeding, tooth and bone loss. Not only is gum disease bad for your mouth, but it’s been linked to several systemic diseases, such as heart disease and dementia.

Are You Flossing Correctly?

The American Dental Association has a few tips for flossing:

  • Do it! Make a habit and pick a time every day when you can floss.
  • Be gentle. Flossing should not be painful and your gums should not be bleeding. If either of these happens while you floss, come see us.
  • Use about 18 inches of floss so you can wrap it around your fingers, and so you can use a clean bit for each tooth.
  • Don’t forget your kids! Help your children floss while they are young and teach them to floss when they are old enough. This will help them develop good oral health habits.

Being diligent in your flossing is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health. Flossing will keep the plaque and tartar away and keep your mouth healthy.

Let us know if you have any questions about flossing or any other dental health subject. We love hearing from you!

Thanks for your trust in our practice.

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