Why Should I Use a Dental Floss Regularly?
Did you know that more than 50% of Americans don’t floss regularly? What’s more alarming is that 1 out of 5 people doesn’t floss at all. Do you belong to those people who answer “yes” every time your hygienist asks if you regularly floss, even though you just did once prior to your dental appointment?
We know that flossing might be annoying and you would rather spend your time doing some other stuff especially when you are tired and just wanted to relax. Is flossing really worth your effort and patience? We list down some of the reasons why you should floss regularly:
What is a Dental Floss?
Dental floss is a cord (usually made up of waxed nylon) used to dislodge food residue and dental plaque from between teeth in areas a toothbrush is unable to reach.
I Regularly Brush my Teeth, do I still need to Floss?
Brushing only cleans about ⅔ of your entire mouth. Not flossing will allow growth of bacteria and plaque which will then develop into cavities and gingivitis. The plaque and bacteria from your mouth can cause gingivitis in a matter of days. Periodontal disease can develop from gingivitis over time. That is why flossing is important to clean the remaining ⅓ of your mouth or the places where your toothbrush is unable to reach.
Benefits of Using Dental Floss Regularly
• Flossing does not only clean your teeth but also keeps your whole body from harmful bacteria.
• It prevents plaque buildup.
• It prevents periodontal disease.
• Cost-effective and easy to use dental hygiene tool.
• Makes your smile better and prevents bad breath.
How to Properly Floss?
Now that you understand the importance and benefits of using a dental floss, it is also important that you know how to properly use it. Here are some instructions from Dr. Ting:
• Cut a 12 - 18 inches long dental floss.
• Wind most of it from both of your middle fingers and hold it tightly with your thumb and index finger.
• Slide the floss gently between your teeth.
• Curve the floss as it reaches your gums forming a C shape to allow the floss to enter the space between your gums and tooth.
• Scrape in an up and down pattern and repeat on the surface of the other tooth.
• Move from one tooth to another to ensure that all gaps between your teeth are clean.
For more informational dental and oral health care videos, please check and subscribe to our Youtube Channel: Ask Dr. Ting.
