Healthy Smiles Premier Dental
Many people brush their teeth twice a day and think that’s enough for good dental hygiene. The truth is, if you’re not flossing regularly, you’re not reaching every area of your mouth and you could be setting yourself up for future dental problems.
Why flossing is so important
Your toothbrush doesn’t clean in between your teeth. Only floss can reach into those tight spaces. Your dentist recommends that you floss regularly, as food particles can stay stuck in those crevices and build up into plaque, a type of biofilm that grows on the surfaces in your mouth.
A biofilm is basically a playground for many different types of bacteria and can cause all kinds of problems if left unchecked. These include cavities, gingivitis, and ultimately, periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a serious complication as it can spread from your mouth into your bloodstream and affect your internal organs, such as your heart and lungs.
Taking just a little time every day to floss between your teeth can save you from major problems down the road.
Making flossing a habit
At minimum, healthy adults with no other dental problems should be flossing three times a week. It’s even better if you can floss daily, but there’s no need to do it more frequently than this.
Nighttime is ideal for flossing since it clears out the pieces of food that have gotten stuck between your teeth over the course of the day.
The best tools for flossing
If your teeth are tight, you may find traditional string floss to be uncomfortable and prone to breaking. Wax-coated floss might be a better option for you as it is designed to fit into snug spaces and is less likely to break. Another good alternative is Y-shaped plastic flossers, which let you maneuver into hard-to-reach areas.
Other great tools are available to help you clean between your teeth, such as electric-powered flossers, which use pressurized water or air to clear away food particles.
The bottom line
Flossing is an essential part of a good dental hygiene routine. It’s simple and easy to do and can save you from serious health complications in the long run. Your teeth are important—they deserve your care and protection so they can remain in good condition for your entire life. To schedule a consultation with our Gardena dentist, contact our team today.