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Why it’s important to floss daily

HD Dental Studio / Blog / Why it’s important to floss daily

Why it’s important to floss daily

HD Dental Studio HD Tipster September 23, 2024

Why is Flossing So Important?

Flossing is essential to your daily dental routine because it reaches where a toothbrush cannot. Particularly the tight spaces between your teeth and the gum line.

Nearly half the surface area of your teeth lies between them, and if you’re not flossing, you’re not cleaning a large portion of your teeth properly. By removing food particles and plaque from these areas, flossing can help prevent tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease.

Did you know that flossing does around 40% of the work needed to remove sticky bacteria or plaque from your teeth? That is why flossing is important and essential for your oral health.

 

Common Misconceptions About Flossing

1. Flossing is only necessary when food is stuck between your teeth

Many people believe that flossing is only needed when they can feel food particles between their teeth. However, flossing is essential for removing plaque, not just food. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to gum disease and cavities if not removed daily. Therefore a consistent routine is required to ensure plaque is removed regularly to prevent buildup.

2. Aggressive flossing is more effective

Do you think that flossing harder will clean your teeth better? This is not true and can be harmful, which is also applied to brushing your teeth. Aggressive action and pressure can damage the gums, leading to bleeding and irritation. Gentle and consistent flossing is recommended for the best results.

3. Bleeding gums are a sign to stop flossing

If your gums bleed when you floss, it may be a sign of inflammation due to plaque buildup. Rather than stopping, it’s important to continue flossing regularly. If the bleeding persists, it’s advisable to consult our dentist as it could be a sign of gum disease.

4. Flossing is not necessary if you brush regularly

Brushing teeth is vital, but it only cleans the surfaces of the teeth. Flossing cleans the tight spaces between teeth and below the gumline where a toothbrush cannot reach. Skipping flossing means you’re not cleaning a significant portion of your teeth, which could lead to dental issues down the track. We definitely want to avoid that!

5. All types of floss are the same

There are various types of dental floss available, and not every type of floss is suitable for everyone. Factors such as the spacing of your teeth, sensitivity, and whether you have braces or other dental appliances can influence which type of floss is best for you. This leads perfectly into…

 

Alternatives to Dental Floss

While flossing with traditional string dental floss is the gold standard, there are alternatives available for those who find it challenging due to teeth spacing or have specific dental needs.

It’s important to note that while these alternatives can be effective, they may not work for everyone. Consult with our dentist during your appointment at HD Dental Studio can help determine the best interdental cleaning method for your individual needs.

  1. Water Flossers: These devices use a stream of water to remove food particles and plaque between teeth and below the gum line. They are particularly useful for people with braces.
  2. Interdental Brushes: Small brushes designed to clean between your teeth, they can be more suitable than floss if you have large gaps between your teeth or braces.
  3. Floss Picks: Handy tools that hold a small piece of floss. They are often easier to handle than traditional floss and are a good option for those with limited dexterity.
  4. Soft Picks: Rubber-tipped instruments that gently remove plaque and food debris without the need for string floss.

 

Flossing is a non-negotiable part of dental care that ensures your teeth stays healthy and strong. Remember, the best flossing routine is the one that you will stick to consistently.

Has it been a while since your last routine dental check up? Book Online now and get your teeth cleaned at HD Dental Studio using the EMS Airflow dental spa treatment.

 

Your HD Tipster @ HD Dental Studio