If you’ve ever skipped flossing before bed and wondered if it matters, you’re not alone. Many people think brushing is enough, but flossing plays an essential role in oral health. According to every dentist in Airdrie, flossing daily isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a key step in preventing gum disease and cavities where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Flossing removes and flushes out plaque and food bits between teeth, areas where brushing cannot access. When left behind, the particles become breeding grounds for bacteria that cause gum inflammation, cavities, and halitosis. So, is flossing not essential? Let us dissect the reasons why professionals make it a daily no-excuse routine.
Is Daily Flossing Necessary?
Yes, it is. While brushing removes the surface dirt from your teeth, flossing clears the tight spaces between teeth and the gumline. Without flossing, almost 35% of your tooth surface is left uncleaned. Eventually, this raises the risk for gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.
Lack of flossing here and there may not harm, but regular disregard will lead to irreparable harm. If you want to enjoy the best oral health, daily flossing should be part of your dentist-advised flossing routine.
What Are the Benefits of Flossing Every Day?
Regular flossing isn’t just about removing food bits; it offers multiple health benefits:
- Prevents Gum Disease: Stops plaque buildup that can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Reduces Cavities: Cleans tight spaces where decay often starts.
- Fights Bad Breath: Removes bacteria and trapped food particles that cause odour.
- Supports Overall Health: Poor oral hygiene has been linked to heart disease and diabetes, so flossing can indirectly support overall health.
Following a dentist-recommended flossing routine is a small habit with big rewards.
What Happens If You Don’t Floss Daily?
If flossing is skipped, plaque turns to tartar, and this has to be removed professionally. This can result in the following long-term:
- Inflamed Gums: Gingivitis, or early gum disease
- Tooth Decay: Particularly between teeth
- Bad Breath: Chronic bad odour due to bacteria
- Serious Infections: Advanced gum disease can cause bone loss and tooth loss
The takeaway? Daily flossing is the easiest way to avoid expensive treatments and painful dental issues. This is why you’ll always hear flossing advice from dentists in Airdrie; it’s that important.
How a Dentist Recommends a Flossing Routine?
Wondering if there’s a “right” way to floss? Here’s what most dental experts suggest:
- Use enough floss: 18 inches wrapped around your fingers for a good grip.
- Slide gently: Don’t strike the floss against your gums.
- Follow the curve: Wind each tooth in a “C” shape to clean as much as possible.
- Don’t forget the back teeth: They are usually overlooked but equally susceptible to plaque buildup.
- Floss Before Brushing: It allows fluoride to move between teeth more efficiently.
Developing this habit in less than 2 minutes can save you from major dental issues in the future.
Which Flossing Method Gives the Best Results?
Daily flossing remains the most effective way to clean between teeth. It dislodges plaque and debris that brushing doesn’t, so it’s against which all other products are compared. Nevertheless, options such as water flossers and floss picks are helpful. Water flossers are for people with orthodontia or closely spaced teeth, and floss picks are handy in emergency cleanings on the go. However, dentists suggest using everyday floss at least once a day for optimum results.
Let’s Make Your Oral Health a Priority; Book Your Visit Now!
Your smile is more valuable than you know, and flossing every day is that one little step that pays huge dividends. If you’re not sure of your flossing routine or would like professional guidance, book an appointment at Airdrie Choice Dental today. We’ll ensure your smile is always healthy and radiant for a lifetime.
FAQs
Can over-flossing hurt my gums?
Yes. Too fast or hard flossing can slice your gums and irritate them. Always ease the floss through each tooth in a curved motion.
Do I need to floss before or after brushing?
Floss before brushing to clear out food bits and help the toothpaste’s fluoride reach between your teeth better.
Do kids have to floss too?
Yes, children should floss too. Once a child has two teeth that touch, flossing needs to be done to avoid cavities and gum disease.
My gums bleed when I floss. Why?
Bleeding typically occurs if the gums are tender due to plaque accumulation. Daily flossing prevents bleeding within a few days.
Can a water flosser substitute for lost floss?
Not quite. Water flossers are convenient, particularly with braces, but do not remove sticky plaque like plain floss.