Anyone who has ever had a cavity knows that taking care of your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health. Brushing twice a day helps remove plaque and food particles from your teeth, but it is not enough to prevent cavities and gum disease. That’s where dental floss comes in.
Many people view dental floss as a necessary evil-something that must be done to keep teeth healthy, but it is often unpleasant and time-consuming. For those who find traditional floss difficult to use, there are now various flossing products available that can make the process easier and more enjoyable. Water flossers, for example, use a stream of water to clean between teeth, while disposable floss picks can help to reach hard-to-reach areas.
With that said, is it necessary to use dental floss every day? In this post, we shall give you the top reasons dentists recommend using dental floss every day. According to this Invisalign dentist in Lancaster, adding flossing to your oral care routine is a great way to keep your teeth healthy as it prevents the build-up of harmful bacteria.
To prevent gum disease
Gum disease is a condition in which the gums become inflamed and can eventually lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis, or early-stage gum disease, is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease.
Dental floss helps remove plaque from your teeth and gums, which reduces your risk of developing gum disease. In fact, studies have shown that flossing can reduce the severity of gum disease and may even help reverse it in some cases.
To prevent cavities
Cavities are holes in the teeth that are caused by tooth decay. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums, and when it is not removed, it can lead to cavities. Cavities are often painless in the early stages, but if they are left untreated, they can cause tooth loss, gum disease, and other serious problems. Dental floss helps remove plaque from your teeth, which reduces your risk of developing cavities. In addition, flossing can also help to remove food particles and other debris that may be stuck between your teeth.
Helps to keep your breath fresh
A dental floss is an effective tool for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, but it can also help to keep your breath fresh. When you floss, you remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, which helps to prevent bad breath.
In addition, dental floss can reach places that toothbrushes cannot, such as the back of your tongue. This area is a common source of bad breath, as it is home to bacteria that release sulfur compounds. By regularly flossing, you can remove these bacteria and help to keep your breath smelling its best.
Reduces the chances of cardiovascular disease
You may not realize it, but your oral health can significantly impact your overall cardiovascular health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to bacteria buildup in the mouth, which can then enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation. Studies have shown a link between periodontal disease and an increased risk of heart disease.
This inflammation contributes to the development of plaque in the arteries, leading to a heart attack or stroke. While brushing your teeth twice a day is an important part of maintaining good oral health, flossing is also essential for removing bacteria and plaque from between the teeth. By including flossing in your daily routine, you can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
Dental floss good practices
The Coronado Dentist from Bajars&Bajars say that it is important to use dental floss correctly to maximize its effectiveness. The first step is to choose the right type of floss for your needs. There are many different types of floss available, including waxed and unwaxed floss and flavored and unflavored floss. You should also choose a size that is comfortable for you to use.
- Once you have chosen the right type of floss, you should cut off a piece that is about 18 inches long. This will allow you to wrap the floss around your fingers and still have enough to reach all of your teeth.
- To use dental floss, you should gently insert the floss between your teeth and then move it up and down. You should be careful not to snap the floss into your gums, as this can cause irritation. You should also avoid using the same piece of floss for more than one tooth, as this can spread bacteria from one tooth to another.
- When you are finished flossing, you should rinse your mouth with water to remove any food particles or plaque that may be left behind. You should also spit out the water rather than swallowing it, as this can lead to cavities.
Important considerations before choosing to use dental floss every day
While dental floss is an effective way to keep your teeth and gums healthy, there are some important considerations to consider before you start using it.
- First, you should be sure to use dental floss made from safe materials. Some types of floss are made from synthetic fibers that can contain harmful chemicals. You should also avoid using floss made from natural fibers, as these can contain bacteria that can lead to infection.
- Second, you should use dental floss that is the right size for your teeth. If the floss is too small, it may not be able to reach all of the spaces between your teeth. If the floss is too large, it may be difficult to maneuver and cause irritation.
- Third, you should be sure to floss correctly to avoid injuring your gums. You should be careful not to snap the floss into your gums, as this can cause irritation. You should also avoid using the same piece of floss for more than one tooth, as this can spread bacteria from one tooth to another.
