Our Kenora dentists recommend you brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss once a day. But some patients choose to skip flossing for several reasons. Today, we can explain why flossing is important and why you shouldn't skip it.
The Importance of Flossing
Preventive oral hygiene is more than attending regular dental exams and cleanings. It also means practicing daily oral health routines at home, like brushing and flossing regularly.
Flossing once a day is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gum line. It helps to clean these spaces, and prevent plaque from building up to prevent issues like cavities, gum disease and bad breath.
There are many myths about flossing, which can cause people to skip this vital oral health care practice altogether.
Here dentists debunk some of the myths about flossing and explain why you should never skip this important practice.
Myth: You Only Need To Floss If You Have Food Stuck In Your Teeth.
Brushing doesn't remove bacteria in between the teeth, so only a portion of the tooth surface is getting cleaned. Even if you don't feel or see something stuck between your teeth, there is plaque building up that can only be removed by flossing to prevent issues like cavities, gum disease and bad breath.
Myth: You Can Use Mouthwash Instead Of Floss.
Mouthwash has a lot of benefits but it does not remove plaque that can build up between your teeth. Mouthwash can be excellent to add to your oral hygiene routine but it should not be considered a replacement for flossing.
Myth: You Can't Floss If You Are Wearing Braces.
Flossing can be difficult when you are wearing metal braces, but it still needs to be done. Flossing will help keep your gum line clean and free from plaque buildup during your orthodontic treatment.
Today, there are also alternative orthodontic treatment options, like Invisalign clear aligners, that can be removed for brushing and flossing to make the process easier.
Myth: Your Children Are Too Young To Floss.
Children can start flossing their teeth as soon as they get them. It teaches them good practices and the sooner they start the more likely it is that they will keep doing it every day.
If it is difficult for them to floss on their own, try encouraging them and helping them along the way. If your child is under 10 years old, you can floss for them.
Myth: Your Gums Bleed When You Floss, So You Should Stop.
If your gums bleed during flossing, this is usually a sign you need to floss more often. The more you floss, the less your gums are likely to bleed. If your gums are bleeding continually, even after regular flossing, then it could be a sign of another dental issue such as periodontal disease, so be sure to share any concerns with your dentist.