Flossing should be part of your daily oral hygiene routine.
When it comes to maintaining your oral health, one of the best things you can do is practice proper oral hygiene on a daily basis. It’s important that you brush your teeth at least twice a day and that you make flossing a habit. Brushing and flossing help to remove plaque and harmful bacteria, and go a long way in preventing a number of health issues from developing. If you’re wondering why flossing is so important, read on to find out why it’s worth taking the time every day…
Why is it important to floss?
Although brushing your teeth is helpful in getting rid of food particles, bacteria and plaque, there are simply areas of the mouth that can’t be reached with a toothbrush alone. Flossing helps to clean in between your teeth, and removes plaque and food particles that, if left unremoved, could lead to issues like gum disease and tooth decay. Removing debris from between your teeth and gum line also helps to prevent bad breath as bacteria often forms in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
Besides removing plaque and food particles, flossing also helps to stimulate the gums. The habit goes a long way in keeping the gums healthy and free from infection.
How often should you floss?
It is advisable to floss your teeth at least once a day. This will ensure that food particles and plaque are removed from in between the teeth and along the gum line.
When it comes to dental floss, there are a few options available. Waxed floss protects the teeth and gums from damage, while you may find floss holders and floss picks easier and quicker to use. If you’re not sure about which flossing tools are best for you, chat to your dentist for some helpful advice.
What happens if you don’t floss?
Individuals who don’t floss their teeth are generally at greater risk of gum disease and tooth decay than those who floss on a daily basis. Flossing helps to remove plaque that has built up between the teeth and along the gum line. When plaque is left to accumulate, bacteria forms, which can lead to infection and gum disease. Some symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen and bleeding gums, bad breath, pain when chewing and biting, loose or shifting teeth, and receding gums.
If you don’t floss, you are also at risk of developing tooth decay between your teeth. Plaque between the teeth can cause harmful bacteria to form and eat away at the enamel. This can cause cavities to develop.
How can we help?
At Dental Pearls, we understand the importance of preventative care, which is why we encourage our patients to come in and see us every six months for a dental examination and cleaning session. When you come in and see us, our team will also provide education and counselling, as well as demonstrations and advice on how to best maintain a healthy mouth. To find out what to expect at a maintenance appointment and how our dentists and dental hygienists can help you keep your teeth healthy and clean, please have a look here.
If you would like to make an appointment to see us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We would love to help you achieve and maintain healthy teeth and gums in the long term.
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