We’ve all heard it before – flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. However, many of us still aren’t in the habit of flossing everyday. So just how harmful is this to your dental health? It depends on who you ask, but the overwhelming majority of those within the dental industry believe that not flossing can lead to numerous serious oral health concerns. While flossing may seem like a nuisance to many, the fact of the matter is that taking 2 minutes out of your morning and evening routine to floss could be doing more good for your mouth – and overall health – than you realize. These days there are numerous different methods for flossing – from the traditional floss wrapped around the finger method to more high-tech options. Regardless of which route you decide to go, your teeth, mouth, and gums will benefit from everyday flossing. Think of it this way – flossing is an important element to a healthy smile and to keeping those teeth as white and straight as you want them to be.
Why Floss?
First and foremost – the act of flossing is what breaks up unwanted plaque bacterial biofilm on your teeth. This bacteria-filled biofilm is what can change the chemistry of your mouth, making it a welcome haven to harmful pathogens. In a nutshell – flossing gets rid of the nasty plaque that can put you at risk of developing an infection or other disease that may compromise the structures within your mouth that support your teeth. When you don’t floss on a regular basis, you become vulnerable to gum infection (gingivitis), which can in turn lead to gum disease (periodontitis) and even tooth loss. In addition to tooth loss and gum disease, bacteria from periodontal disease can enter into the bloodstream and travel to other parts of your body, such as your heart and respiratory tract. Numerous studies have linked periodontal disease to diabetes and even low birth weight in newborns. Doesn’t sound so fun, does it? Thankfully, there is a way to prevent these oral health problems from rearing their ugly head – flossing.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Flossing
If you aren’t sure the exact technique for proper flossing, just ask! All of the dental technicians at Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Las Colinas are happy to answer any questions you may have and are here to help you achieve your optimal oral health. There are also tons of YouTube videos online, if you still aren’t sure you are doing it right once you get home. Furthermore, there are numerous great tools at your local grocery or beauty store to make flossing your teeth just that much easier, including:
- Glide dental floss (for those with tight spacing between the teeth)
- Plastic, Y-shaped disposable flossers that help with extra reach
- Small brushes or pointed rubber tips
- Wooden or plastic pics (also referred to as interdental cleaners)
- Battery-powered flossing tools that use a small microbead of water and a forceful puff of air to floss for you
We know it can be difficult to get in the habit of something, especially when it comes to flossing. If you have any questions or would like to discuss why you should floss with one of our experienced dental technicians, please do not hesitate to contact us.
