Any dentist worth his salt can tell whether a patient has been flossing or not. And truth be told, the people these patients talk to in close proximity can often tell as well. A recent study that notoriously claimed flossing has no significant impact on one’s overall oral health made dental professionals around the globe shake their heads in dismay. Here’s the bottom line: There is no other way to adequately remove biofilm and plaque bacteria from between your teeth. The following article is just one of many that seeks to set the record straight.
Although recent news reports have questioned the benefits of cleaning between your teeth, using an interdental cleaner (like floss) is an essential part of taking care of your teeth and gums. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also reaffirmed flossing as “an important oral hygiene practice” in an August 2016 statement.
The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between your teeth once a day. This is important because plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing can eventually harden into calculus or tartar. Flossing may also help prevent gum disease and cavities. Continue reading at Mouth Healthy
Fresher Breath and a Healthier Mouth
If the very thought of allowing oral bacteria to grow unchecked in your mouth makes you cringe, we completely understand. Swallowing plaque bacteria is unhealthy, but when there is a preponderance of it in your mouth that’s what happens. Thankfully, the problem can be curtailed if you practice healthy oral hygiene habits, which include regular brushing, flossing and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash to eliminate these harmful germs. Commit to a thorough oral hygiene routine to protect the health of your smile and your body.
Trouble Along The Gum Line
Left unchecked, plaque build-up along your gums can lead to gingivitis and painful, puffy, bleeding gums. This can cause bad breath and directly influence which foods and drinks you are able to enjoy. Don’t let lack of flossing keep you from having a healthy and radiant smile. Start a new routine for 2017 and watch how they translate into the easiest dental check-ups you’ve ever had. There is nothing we love to see more at Adult Dentistry of Ballantyne than clients who have stepped up their oral health regimen between appointments. And flossing is definitely part of the full process. Brushing is paramount but it has limits. The following article goes into more detail about this.
There are five surfaces on each tooth, including three that a brush can clean (the front, back and top or bottom of the tooth), and two that require flossing to clean (the sides of the tooth, that are adjacent to other teeth).
At a basic level, dentists and hygienists recommend flossing as a preventative approach for two reasons. One, to help prevent tooth decay that can originate from the presence of acid-producing bacterial biofilm between teeth. Two, to help prevent the gingivitis that can stem from an immune system-mediated inflammatory response to the presence of bacterial biofilm between teeth. See more at Live Science
Technique Is Everything
Flossing properly takes some time and practice. Ensure you are wrapping your loose floss securely around your fingers in order to maintain control. We recommend wiping off the plaque residue or moving to a fresh portion of floss between each tooth in order not to contaminate your mouth. Expanding floss is a great product as it covers a broader surface area and removes more plaque.
Flossing picks are easier to use and more convenient for some individuals, just be aware that they create a significant amount of disposable plastic and aren’t the most eco-friendly solution. Plus, those with tight teeth may notice that floss picks have a tendency to break, requiring even more resources for a single cleaning.
If you’re looking for a dental practice to help you get your smile in the best shape it’s ever been in, book your next cleaning with Adult Dentistry of Ballantyne. Dr. Robert Harrell and his expert staff create a welcoming, worry-free, judgement-free zone where patients receive the best dental care possible. Don’t put it off any longer; schedule your teeth cleaning and check-up today. Call Adult Dentistry of Ballantyne at 704-541-9888 or use the contact form on this page to set your appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.
