You’ve had the conversation with your dental hygienist a dozen times: “It’s really important to floss and you need to start today.” Sure, you promised that you would start, but after a week of dedicated flossing, you start to fall off the wagon. We get it. Implementing flossing in your daily oral hygiene routine can be difficult. If the above describes you, let us try to show you why flossing is so crucial.
Today, Parkcrest Dental Group offers three reasons you need to change your mind about flossing.
#1 If You Don’t Floss, You Don’t Clean 40% of Each Tooth
There are three surfaces of the tooth that you can properly clean just using a toothbrush. The occlusal surface (the biting surface), the Buccal/vestibular surface (the side facing your cheek), and the Lingual/palatal surface (the side facing your tongue). However, there are two sides that aren’t taken care of by brushing — the Mesial and Distal surfaces (the spaces between each tooth).
If you don’t floss, you are ignoring 40% of the surface of the tooth and the area where much of the bacteria in your mouth is harbored. Be thorough. Floss regularly to ensure you care for all parts of the tooth.
Related Post: Should I Brush or Floss First?
#2 Flossing Helps Prevent Ginginvitis
Most of us have heard of gingivitis, however, many don’t realize how serious the disease can become. Sure, it can lead to bad breath and bleeding gums. What many people don’t realize is that advanced gingivitis leads to risks that are much worse.
You can lose a tooth as the disease weakens the bone and ligaments that hold the tooth in place. Gingivitis can even lead to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory disease. Gingivitis is no laughing matter. Ensure you floss regularly as part of your oral hygiene routine to ensure your mouth stays healthy.
#3 Flossing Is Easy!
Some people avoid flossing because it can be difficult to do properly. The need to reach to your back molars and between each tooth can be difficult and uncomfortable at first. However, much of the trouble you experience when you floss is magnified because you aren’t doing it often. Once you implement flossing into your dental care routine, your teeth and gums will get used to it, you will improve your technique, and it will quickly become second nature to reach for the floss after you brush.
Related Post: Which Flossing Tool is Right For You?
Who can I contact for more flossing tips?
If you are in need of a dental expert to help you establish a healthy habit of regular flossing, Parkcrest Dental Group is happy to help. Our team can walk you through the proper technique, show you the best products to use, and answer any of your dental questions. Give us a call today at 1-417-887-1220 or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to your visit!
