There are many reasons why people hate flossing – they think it is difficult to do, it makes their gums bleed, or they simply “don’t have the time.” But did you know that dental floss is one of the most effective tools for preventing periodontal disease?
Many people think brushing alone is sufficient to remove all of the dental plaque from their teeth and gums, but brushing cannot reach the gaps and tight spaces between teeth. And that’s where flossing comes in.
Additionally, flossing can also dislodge food debris that is firmly stuck between teeth, as well as acids and sugars from drinks you’ve had throughout the day. Flossing is necessary for maintaining your overall dental health, in addition to brushing.
All it takes is a few minutes a day to floss your teeth, but that alone can make the difference between optimal oral health, or developing periodontal disease somewhere down the line. Get into the habit flossing at least once before bedtime, or preferably after each meal. You’ll have healthier gums and teeth because of it!
Lastly, if you find string flossing to be too much of a hassle, then consider trying out water flossing. Especially if you have orthodontics like braces, water flossing can be a major time saver by quickly eliminating 99% of plaque bacteria in just seconds.
What is Dental Floss?
Dental floss is a tool that helps you remove plaque and bits of food stuck between your teeth that can lead to bad breath and tooth decay. There are many types of dental floss, such as waxed, flavored, and floss sticks.
Most dental floss are made from nylon or Teflon. Some of them are coated with wax which helps it slide between your teeth more easily and remove food substances. Other than that, the wax has no health benefits.
Generally, dental floss will contain fluoride, which is also found in other dental products since it is believed to prevent tooth decay. Flavored dental floss are another type of floss and may motivate those who dislike flossing to try it out.
Some people lack the technique or dexterity to thread the string between their teeth, so floss sticks are another alternative to dental floss. Dental floss are disposable, so discard them after use.
Those who have never flossed before or floss infrequently may experience bleeding or gum irritation. However, daily use will reduce the chances of this happening and will lead to healthier teeth and gums.
Check out our articles below to learn more about how dental floss and water flossers can improve your oral health.