Is flossing really necessary?
Just like clockwork, when you go to visit your dentist they’ll always ask you about your flossing habits. You also know you’ve got to be honest with them since they can easily tell whether or not you’ve been flossing. At some point, you might have wondered whether all of this worry about flossing every day is even worth it. There is very good research to suggest that flossing is necessary.
Floss for the sake of your gums
A report highlighted by the Associated Press showed that flossing does not help to protect against cavities. Despite this, there’s also evidence that suggests there’s a benefit to flossing when it comes to protecting your gums.
One of the biggest signs that your gums may need attention is if they’re prone to bleeding. This can often be a sign that there’s a build-up of plaque beneath your gum line which can cause your gums to become inflamed. You might notice your gums bleed after eating certain foods or brushing your teeth.
If you’re noticing these signs, it may be an indication that you have gum disease. Flossing can help protect your gums from inflammation. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can lead to issues in other parts of your body if left untreated. So even if you feel it’s not necessary to floss in order to protect against cavities, flossing can have a big impact on the health of your gums and consequently your overall health.
Flossing tips:
Flossing is important for most people. Anyone who still has most of their teeth, people without teeth that are jammed together, and those whose gums have not receded leaving triangular gaps between the teeth should absolutely be flossing. Flossing can also be complicated by certain dental appliances and implants. In this case, consulting with your dentist is the best way to ensure you’re keeping your mouth clean.
Once you’ve decided to incorporate flossing back into your routine, there are some tips you’ll want to follow. You should be flossing at least once a day and you should floss right before brushing to ensure debris is washed away. You’ll want to cut about 12 inches of floss and wrap the ends of the cross around your fingers. Then, slowly move the floss towards the gums to ensure you clean between both teeth. If you have any hesitation or would benefit from a demonstration, schedule an appointment with us and we’ll be able to help you keep your gums healthy.
