According to the American Dental Association, 20% of Americans only floss when something is stuck in their teeth. An additional 8% simply never floss at all. While most of us have been told to floss since we were young, it’s easy to overlook this step in your dental routine. However, ignoring your flossers can have serious consequences on your oral health. In this post, your dentist in Hiram will explain what flossing does for you that brushing cannot.
Why Should I Floss?
Flossing is a key step of removing bacteria-filled plaque. Unlike brushing, flossing helps you remove plaque from between your teeth and underneath the gums. These hard-to-reach areas are where the most destructive bacteria exist. When you neglect flossing, you’re at risk of two major dental issues: gingivitis and cavities.
Plaque irritates your gum tissue, causing it to inflame and bleed easily, which breeds more bacteria and can result in gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease). When left untreated, this condition blooms into periodontitis and can cause serious infection, tooth loss and even raise your risk of heart disease. Plaque can also destroy the enamel on your teeth, leading to the formation cavities.
How Do I Floss Correctly?
To get the most out of flossing, brush up on your technique. Start with about 18 inches of floss and wind it around each middle finger. Leaving an inch or two of floss to clean with, hold it tightly between your fingers and slide it in between your teeth. Gently move it up and down and curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure to go below the gum line. Alternate between clean sections of floss as you progress.
The type of floss you use is also important. You can choose between nylon floss or PTFE floss. The former is available as waxed or unwaxed and in a variety of flavors. However, it may tear or shred in tight contact points, including between your teeth. The more expensive single-filament PTFE floss slides easier between your teeth and is shred-resistant. Both are effective and you should choose whichever you prefer.
Flossing may not be fun, but it’s just as important for your teeth as brushing. Reach out to your family dentist in Hiram if you want more tips on flossing.
About the Author
Dr. Bobby Shirley has over 15 years of experience in the dental field. Because of his dedication to providing expert care to his patients, he was selected for the Leadership Georgia program in 2013. If you have further questions about your oral hygiene routine, he can be reach through his website or at 770-445-6606.
