While everyone understands the importance of regular brushing, only a few recognise the role of flossing for better oral health.
Flossing is an important part of the oral hygiene routine, which includes using dental floss to clean between the teeth and gums. It is crucial to understand that brushing alone cannot reach the tight spaces between the teeth and under the gum line where plaque and food particles tend to collect. Overlooking these areas can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, which is why knowing how to floss properly is important.
Also Read: Regular Flossing Linked To Better Heart Health, Reduced Stroke, AFib Risk: Research
Benefits Of Flossing
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends brushing twice every day and flossing daily.
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Periodontology analysed data from 8,356 adults aged 30 and older in the United States and found that only 31.6% reported flossing daily. The study, based on the 2011-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, suggested that women, individuals with higher incomes, and non-Hispanic Asian and Hispanic adults were more likely to floss daily.
Tobacco users were less likely to maintain this habit, while having diabetes did not significantly impact flossing frequency.
While flossing helps provide fresh breath, the real benefits of flossing go far beyond that. Regular flossing helps to:
- Remove plaque and trapped food that contribute to tooth decay and gum inflammation.
- Prevent gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis; if left untreated, it can damage the bone supporting your teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss.
- Reduce the risk of cavities.
- Improve overall oral health and well-being.
Proper Technique Matters
While flossing is important, it is crucial to know how to floss correctly. Technique is key, and here’s how you can ensure you’re flossing properly.
Step 1: Cut a length of floss about 18 inches long.
Step 2: Wrap each end of the floss around your middle fingers, leaving about 2-3 inches of floss between them.
Step 3: Gently guide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth sawing motion. Be careful not to snap the floss down onto your gums.
Step 4: Curve the floss into a ‘C’ shape against one tooth and slide it gently under the gum line. Step 5: Move the floss up and down, scraping along the tooth surface to remove plaque and debris.
Step 6: Repeat this process for each tooth, including the back teeth. Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.
Step 7: Discard the used floss after each use.
Also Read: Unlocking The Secrets Of Fresh Breath: Effective Strategies Beyond Brushing And Flossing
Remember to be gentle. If the floss doesn't fit easily, try a different type of floss.
While some bleeding when you first start flossing is normal, if your gums bleed consistently when you floss, it could be a sign of gum disease. It's important to see your dentist to determine the cause of the bleeding and get the appropriate treatment.
Takeaway
Flossing every day is super important for healthy teeth and gums. It helps get rid of the plaque and food remnants your toothbrush misses that can cause cavities and gum problems. Doing it right, with the right floss, keeps your whole mouth cleaner and healthier!