What’s the Deal With Flossing Anyways?
If you have ever been to the dentist, you have likely heard them singing praises about flossing. But for something so small and simple as a string of floss, does it really matter if it glides between your teeth twice each day?
Yes. It does.
Flossing cleans the 33% of your teeth that regular brushing cannot reach. Your teeth have five surfaces, and when you don’t floss, you are missing the two surfaces that can capture and trap plaque. That plaque quickly hardens and calcifies, making it harder to remove from the surface of your teeth. These bacteria put you at risk of bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and chronic pain.
This is where flossing comes in handy.
That tiny piece of string — or water stream if you prefer a water pick — glided between your teeth will loosen these pieces of plaque and clean those two hidden surfaces of your teeth. The entire process of flossing takes about two minutes of your day, but it could be one of the most beneficial things you do for the health of your smile.
However, if it’s been a while since you flossed, you may notice pain or bleeding after flossing. This does not mean your gums are reacting poorly to flossing. Instead, it means you should have been flossing regularly sooner! Your gums are reacting to finally receiving some relief, and as you continue this new routine, the bleeding and pain should subside. If it doesn’t, then there is a larger issue with the health of your gums. Seek help from your dentist as soon as possible.
If you’re new to flossing, our team can help you get started! Learn about finding the right size of floss for your smile, a dentist-approved way to hold the floss, and alternative options to the string with our dental experts. There are water picks, stationary items that can hold the floss, and more, each designed to make flossing easier than ever.
Our team can help you and your family with more dental tips just like these. Learn more and schedule our next appointment by giving us a call.
