Why Flossing is a Vital Part of Oral Care

Good oral hygiene is crucial for keeping a healthy mouth and avoiding the dentist’s chair! While brushing your teeth twice a day is the most widely known habit for maintaining oral hygiene, it does not cover all areas of your teeth and gums. Flossing should be added to your daily regime for the best protection against gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. In this blog post, we will discuss why flossing is an essential part of any oral care routine, and how to floss properly.

Why Flossing is Necessary

While brushing your teeth is an important part of any oral care routine, it cannot reach all areas of your mouth. When plaque begins to build up due to food particles that become stuck between the teeth, it can cause dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Flossing helps to remove plaque build-up in areas that brushing does not reach, protecting your teeth from decay, and keeping your gums healthy.

Types of Dental Floss

There are many different types of dental floss available on the market today. Waxed floss is a common type that is coated in a thin layer of wax, making it easier to slide between tightly spaced teeth. Unwaxed floss is made of nylon filaments and can be either flavored or unflavoured. Another popular dental product is interdental brushes, which are small brushes designed to fit between the teeth and clean hard-to-reach areas.

How to Floss Properly

Flossing should be done at least once a day and the best time to do it is just before bed. Start by winding about 18 inches of floss around your middle fingers and leaving 2-3 inches between them. Glide the floss gently up and down against the sides of your teeth, making sure to reach just below the gum line. Clean each tooth in a sawing motion before moving on to the next one, and be careful not to snap the floss against your gums.

Flossing and Your Overall Health

Regular flossing can help reduce plaque build-up and protect your teeth from decay, but it also has other health benefits. Studies have linked periodontal (gum) disease to other medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses. Flossing helps to keep your gums healthy and can reduce the risk of developing these diseases.

Conclusion

Flossing plays an important role in maintaining good oral hygiene and protecting your teeth from decay and gum disease. It is recommended to floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime. There are many different types of floss available and it is important to choose the one that best works for you. Flossing not only helps keep your teeth healthy but can also reduce the risk of developing other medical conditions.