When our dentists recommend flossing and brushing daily, we mean it! Flossing often takes a back seat to brushing for many reasons. Maybe it is because it takes longer than brushing, or maybe it is just easy to forget.
Whatever the reason, it is time to come to terms with reality. Flossing prevents disease and tooth loss, which means it saves you money, time, and a lot of pain! Who would not want more money in their pocket, more time for fun and family, and less pain?
Brushing does not completely clean your mouth
Your toothbrush may seem like it does all the heavy lifting, but without floss, your teeth are in a world of trouble. The soft brush bristles cannot properly clean between teeth the way that flossing methods can. Only brushing leaves room for bacteria to multiply and do damage, as if you had not brushed at all.
You might still think flossing is not a big deal because your teeth are fine now. Hindsight is 20/20, and studies show how bad your situation can become over time. Your oral health affects more than just your teeth, and it can leave you with poor overall health if not taken care of immediately.
What happens when you do not floss
Flossing is the only way to clean the plaque and food that gets stuck between your teeth. What can go wrong if these pieces are not removed daily? Take a look:
- Tooth loss
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Tartar or calculus build up
- Gum disease
- Cavities
These possibilities are no joke, and they will happen if you skip this important step in oral healthcare. There is even research linking poor dental health with heart disease. So it is a no brainer when it comes to proper oral hygiene: floss regularly!
How to floss properly
If done properly, flossing should not take up your entire day. That means it also should not be too brief either. Each tooth crevice needs flossed, so while it will not take just a couple seconds, you can still be done in no time at all.
Afraid you are not doing it right? Follow these steps:
- Choose device (string floss, water flosser, floss pick)
- Floss between each tooth scraping both sides of the tooth
- Rinse mouth
There is no difference between flossing before or after brushing. All that matters is that your teeth benefit from flossing methods – period. This also applies to time of day. You can floss in the morning, in the afternoon, or before you go to bed – whichever time fits best with your busy schedule!
Some discomfort is normal, but it is an indicator that you need to floss more regularly. Intense pain is not normal, and it should be followed by lessening pressure or dentist consultation if the pain persists. Along with discomfort, blood can appear but that should diminish as your gums become more comfortable with contact.
Call Herrick Dental
Call us for more information. We are happy to help with any of your questions. Schedule an appointment, and we can make sure your teeth are healthy and that you are flossing the right way. And who knows, you might even get away with some free floss!
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