You always hear from dentists that you need to brush AND floss. But why? Isn’t brushing enough? At Creekview Dental in Woodbury, we’d like to explain a little bit about why flossing is such an important part of your oral health.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), flossing at least once a day is necessary to maintain optimal oral health. Why? Gum disease begins both at the gum line and between your teeth and is caused by a buildup of bacteria. Flossing helps you successfully remove that bacteria and plaque from in between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.
While the right toothbrush is great for cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, when you pair proper brushing with a daily flossing routine, you’re not only removing plaque before it can harden into dangerous tartar or calculus, you’re also reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease. With the number of dangers directly related to gum disease (heart disease, strokes, even some cancers), flossing is something you shouldn’t ignore.
Flossing Tips for Healthy Gums
Floss before brushing your teeth
Use about 18 inches of floss
Glide the floss in between each tooth using a sawing or zig-zag motion
Angle the floss in a “c” shape around the tooth and slightly below the gumline
Repeat on the opposite tooth
Unravel the floss from your fingers, supplying fresh floss for each set of teeth
Remember to floss along the sides of teeth, even when they don’t touch other teeth, and under the gum line
Finish with a proper brushing
When you first start on a daily flossing routine, you may experience some discomfort. Be gentle and careful, but be sure you do not stop flossing. If you’re still experiencing discomfort after a week or two, call your dentist in Woodbury immediately.
If you’re due for a checkup, are experiencing discomfort during flossing, or are in need of a professional cleaning, we can help. Call Creekview Dental to schedule your appointment today.
