One of the dental hygiene practices that many individuals know they should practice but frequently neglect is flossing. Others avoid it out of discomfort, perplexity, or even false information, while others view it as voluntary. However, flossing is important for keeping your mouth healthy and avoiding gum disease, tooth decay, and foul breath.
Myth #1: If You Brush Well, You Don’t Need to Floss
The Truth: Only roughly 60% of your tooth surfaces are cleaned when you brush. Your toothbrush doesn’t touch the remaining 40%, which are the spaces between teeth. By removing food particles and plaque from these constricted areas, flossing lowers the risk of gum disease and cavities.
Floss is more effective than even the most advanced toothbrush at reaching between your teeth. Brushing without flossing is similar to showering but not cleaning under your arms.
Myth #2: Flossing Always Hurts or Causes Bleeding
The Truth: Gum bleeding when flossing is usually an indication that you need to floss more frequently, not that you should stop. Usually, bleeding is a sign of gum line inflammation brought on by plaque accumulation. This bleeding normally disappears in a few days if you floss regularly and gently.
After a week or two of daily flossing, if the bleeding continues, consult your dentist. It can indicate gingivitis or a more severe gum disease.
Myth #3: Flossing Can Create Gaps Between Teeth
The Truth: In fact, flossing helps avoid gaps rather than causing them. Teeth shifting and gum recession brought on by gum disease and decay can result in gaps. Maintaining your natural teeth alignment and preserving gum health are two benefits of proper flossing.
Flossing correctly won’t damage your gums or teeth. In fact, skipping it can do more harm over time.
Myth #4: You Only Need to Floss When You Have Food Stuck
The Truth: Despite the fact that flossing removes food particles, its primary goal is to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Plaque is soft and sticky and forms throughout the day. If it isn’t taken out every day, it turns into tartar, which only a dentist can remove.
Plaque is still present between your teeth even if nothing remains there, thus flossing every day is necessary.
Must-Know Flossing Tips
- Floss Daily—Ideally Before Brushing at Night
For most people, flossing once a day is enough. Nighttime is good because it removes the day’s accumulation and leaves your mouth clean as you sleep. Additionally, flossing before brushing makes it easier for toothpaste’s fluoride to get between teeth.
- Use the Right Technique
Using the proper motion to clean the sides of each tooth is more important than simply cleaning between your teeth.
- Use about 18 inches of floss and wind most around your middle fingers.
- Hold it taut with your thumbs and forefingers.
- Gently guide it between your teeth using a sawing motion.
- Curve the floss into a “C” shape around one tooth and slide it under the gumline.
- Move up and down a few times before repeating on the adjacent tooth.
Never snap or force the floss, as this can damage your gums.
- Consider Alternatives if Traditional Floss Is Difficult
If you struggle with traditional floss due to dexterity issues or braces, try:
- Floss picks: Pre-threaded and easy to hold
- Water flossers: Use a stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gumline
- Interdental brushes: Small, brush-like tools that can reach between teeth
The best flossing tool is the one you’ll use consistently.
- Be Gentle but Thorough
Do not floss aggressively. Excessive force can cause gum damage and deter you from flossing in the future. Instead, strive for slow, precise movements. The extra seconds may be necessary, but your gums will appreciate it.
- Teach Children Early
As soon as two teeth come into contact, kids can begin flossing. Parents should oversee or assist until the child is ten or eleven years old. Establishing the habit at a young age creates the foundation for long-term dental health.
The Benefits of Flossing
Flossing regularly offers a range of benefits that go beyond just clean teeth:
- Prevents gum disease by reducing plaque and inflammation
- Reduces risk of cavities between teeth
- Improves breath by removing trapped food and bacteria
- Enhances overall health, as poor oral hygiene has been linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections
Conclusion
As part of a comprehensive dental hygiene regimen, flossing is not an optional practice. Brushing is important, but it can’t get to every place where plaque hides. You may significantly improve your oral and general health by flossing once a day, utilizing the right technique, and figuring out a routine that suits you.
Avoid being duped by flossing misconceptions. Develop the habit, maintain it, and get benefits of a healthy smile over time.
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a teeth whitening consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us at St James Dental Group at 323-771-7254. Our team of skilled dental professionals is always here to provide you with the highest quality care and help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
By: Ladan Zinati