According to dental hygiene statistics, over half of all Americans floss every day, while 31% do not floss at all and 18.5 percent do not floss at all.
Of course, there are various reasons why this number of people do not floss every day. Their usual excuses are that they don't know how to do it, that no food is stuck between their teeth, and that they are afraid of pain.
This group is unaware of the advantages of flossing. You can learn more about why your Mesa dentist recommends flossing by clicking here.
Floss Cleans Between Teeth & Under Gums
We always believe a toothbrush cleans our teeth. However, we are unaware that our toothbrushes cannot reach some parts of our teeth. Its bristles can't go between teeth or under gums. Only dental floss can reach them. Flossing before brushing helps loosen plaque and allows fluoride in toothpaste to reach more mouth areas.
Prevent gum disease
Plaque contains germs, bacteria, and parasites. Therefore, we can assume that if we do not remove this plaque regularly, it will accumulate and cause inflammation. This is gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. In addition, it can cause periodontitis, which damages the jaw bone that anchors the teeth. This will lead to tooth loss if not treated.
Avoid tooth decay
Plaque forms when food gets stuck between our teeth and under our gums. If we can't get rid of it, it produces cavities. Plaque microbes start tooth decay when they interact with sugar.
A confident smile
We are convinced that no one can see between our teeth because we use dental floss. Therefore, plaque will also be absent, as we can remove it.
Now that we know the benefits of using dental floss, we need to learn how to floss efficiently.
Helpful Flossing Tips By Mesa Dental Expert
Here are the go-to steps of how to floss efficiently.
- Take an 18-inch piece of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers. Between your index fingers and thumbs, only one to two inches of length remain. With your thumbs, make a loop.
- Direct the floss to the lower teeth with your index fingers.
- Bring the floss between the teeth to zigzag. Do this lightly to avoid gum damage—curve floss to clean between teeth.
- Slide floss up and down the tooth surfaces and under the gum line. Use clean floss for each tooth.
Where To Find Flossing Help With Mesa Dentist?
If you're still worried about not being able to floss effectively despite using these procedures, seek the advice of your dentist. They can show how you should go about doing it.
What is the purpose of flossing? Flossing is just as crucial as brushing. In reality, it improves the effectiveness our teeth by removing all debris from between them. There are no good excuses for ignoring dental hygiene.
If you want to find out more, Contact Martin Dental for expert dental care. Alternatively, you can fill in the quick form for a fast response from the team. Please read what others have to say about our services.