The Importance of Flossing
Here at Raby Road Dental Centre, we are passionate about oral care and strive to educate our patients on the importance of caring for your teeth in the correct way – to keep your smile bright and healthy. This blog post will focus on the importance of flossing, and why it is crucial to remember to floss!
We should all be brushing our teeth at least twice a day, but did you know that flossing once a day is just as important? Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque between teeth and along the gum line where your toothbrush can’t quite reach, meaning if you don’t floss you are adding to plaque build-up in areas of your mouth that brushing doesn’t reach. Plaque is a form of bacteria that can build up on your teeth and cause cavities and gum disease. Plaque will build just beneath your gum line and a toothbrush will not remove it.
Flossing is proven to remove bacteria that cause bad breath, it is, therefore, vital to floss to keep your breath smelling minty and fresh!
Flossing can help with the removal of plaque from below the gum line, which can erode tooth enamel and develop into tartar which can cause teeth discolouration – to keep your smile white and shining it is important to remember to floss every day.
A top tip is to floss before you brush, this means that the bacteria is loosened and not brushed around the mouth. By flossing each day, you are reducing the risk of gum disease, which can cause many more issues. Flossing helps you to avoid problems such as bleeding gums, receding gums and tooth and bone loss.
Regular flossing can help you examine your mouth, teeth, gums, and tongue more closely for changes including any redness, soreness, or swelling.
Methods of Flossing
- Regular dental floss
- Interdental brushes
- Floss picks
- Water flosser
- Air flosser
Gently slide the floss between teeth and then bring the floss beneath the gum line to ensure maximum cleanliness. Hold the floss with your forefingers and thumbs and place it between two teeth. Gently glide the floss up and down to remove the leftover food particles.
If you wear braces or have dentures, that doesn’t mean that you can’t floss. Try a specialised floss or discuss options with your dentist.
It’s important to teach children the benefits of flossing at a young age. You can start teaching children to floss their teeth at about age 5-7 years, try to build the habit as part of a daily routine and make it a positive experience!
If you aren’t already flossing on a daily basis, this is your reminder to add it to your routine and make your dental health a priority!
