Why Do I Need to Floss My Teeth Every Day?
Brushing alone doesn’t rid the teeth of harmful substances, such as plaque bacterial biofilm, which often causes gum disease and cavities. Brushing only cleans half of the surfaces of the teeth. Flossing can get in between the teeth and parts of the gums that a toothbrush can’t reach.
Daily flossing should be part of your oral hygiene routine. Even if you brush two or more times a day, neglecting flossing can undermine all your efforts and still lead to problems. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of daily flossing:
Clean Your Gums
Flossing is the best way to get the gums clean and is important in protecting your overall oral health. Flossing prevents bacteria biofilm from forming colonies of harmful bacteria, creating an environment for pathogens to survive and grow. The proliferation of these harmful bacteria puts you at risk of developing a serious infection. The structures supporting the teeth may also incur a gum infection, ultimately leading to tooth loss.
Types Of Dental Floss
The best local dentists and hygienists will gladly recommend the right dental floss for your oral health needs. There are different types of dental floss, such as waxed, unwaxed, thick, or comfortable floss.
Right and Wrong Ways to Floss
It is important to balance flossing too hard and too gently. Instead of using a sawing motion, try guiding the floss against each tooth using up-and-down movements. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the gums. If you experience persistent pain, discuss your technique with your hygienist or dentist.
If you’re not a regular flosser, you may feel some discomfort when you begin to incorporate this habit more regularly. However, don’t let it discourage you; the discomfort should disappear in a few days.
Top Cincinnati Dentists Recommend Flossing for Oral Health
Flossing is an effective way to help support dental and overall health. Your hometown dentist is not alone in stressing the importance of flossing. The American Dental Association (ADA) also recommends flossing to prevent plaque from hardening into calculus or tartar. According to the ADA, flossing once a day can prevent serious problems with the teeth and gums.
If you have questions about flossing, you can always contact us at Beckham Square Family Dental. In conjunction with regular teeth cleanings, we want to work with you to keep a healthy, beautiful smile!