Do I really need to floss?
Do you really need to floss? Sure, your dentist brings it up at your check-up but how necessary is it to add flossing to your daily routine?
Should You Floss?
The simple answer is, yes. But not for the reason you may think. Flossing does remove food that is left between teeth but the benefits of floss go even further than that.
Regular flossing is key for preventing gum disease. Food that is left in between teeth can’t be removed by a toothbrush alone, which is why you should floss as a part of your daily routine.
Gum disease affects half of the American population, caused by a build-up of plaque. Not only can advanced stages of gum disease cause receding gums and bone loss but it has also been connected to other health concerns like heart disease.
How to Floss Properly
It is advised to floss at least once a day, it takes less than a minute! Here are the steps to floss properly:
- Take a section of floss about 18 inches in length and wrap the ends around each middle finger
- Holding the floss between your thumb and forefingers, guide it in between teeth
- Curve the floss around one of the teeth into a C shape, flossing in an up and down motion
- Repeat on the rest of your teeth
Always make sure to discard floss after use, old floss can spread bacteria and isn’t as effective!
If you’d like assistance in learning how to floss properly, make sure to ask during your next appointment at Search Dental.
