Why Is Flossing Important?

If you hate flossing, you're not alone. Many people detest flossing, even though it's extremely important for your overall oral health. The providers here in our Gardena office are often asked what makes flossing so important, so we wrote this short guide to explain. As always, please feel free to call the office if you have any questions and our staff will be happy to answer.

What Does Flossing Do for My Oral Health?

Flossing removes food debris that gets stuck between your teeth and at your gum line. It removes any plaque built up in these areas at the same time. Together, these two reduce your chances of developing gingivitis (gum disease) and developing tooth decay between your teeth.

Why Is Preventing Gingivitis Important?

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. The symptoms include irritated gums that bleed when you brush or floss. Gingivitis can be prevented or reversed with proper treatment, but if left untreated, it will progress to the other stages of periodontal disease, which can’t be cured. 

Severe periodontal disease results in tooth and bone loss, tissue damage, and can cause other health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. All of which can be prevented by proper brushing and flossing!

Are There Any Other Benefits to Flossing?

Flossing makes your smile look brighter and more attractive. It can also freshen your breath. 

How Should I Floss?

If using normal string floss, cut a length of about 18 inches. Wind it about the middle fingers of each hand, leaving a tight 1-2 inches free to work with. Slide the floss between two teeth and glide it up and down until you’ve removed all the food particles.

Repeat with each of your teeth on both the top and the bottom of your mouth. Move the floss between your fingers to get a clean section whenever the section you’re working with gets dirty. When you’re done, throw the used floss away. You can then rinse your mouth if you would like.

Are There Any Alternatives to String Floss?

Yes, there are several you can choose from if you don’t like string floss or have difficulty using it. Floss picks are the most common. They come in many different sizes and shapes and can be found at any drug store. Water flossers, such as a WaterPik, are becoming popular too and are also acceptable substitutes. The most important thing is that you floss!

What Kind of Floss Should I Use?

In addition to being able to choose between string floss and floss picks, you can choose from many different kinds of each one. You can find waxed and unwaxed dental floss, extra thin floss, floss coated with breath fresheners, and more. 

You can use any kind of floss you prefer as long as you use it correctly and consistently. You should try different types until you find what works best for you and what you prefer. Some people need extra thin or waxed floss to reach between tight teeth, for example.

How Often Should I Floss?

You need to floss at least once per day for maximum benefit. You’ll still derive benefits if you floss less often, but not nearly as many. Consistency is the key to maximizing your oral health and flossing at least once per day is the best way to do this.

You can also floss more often as well if you would like. For instance, flossing is a great way to remove food debris that gets stuck between your teeth during a meal and irritates your gums. Some foods, such as corn on the cob, are notorious for this, and having floss handy can prevent it from bothering you for hours and keep you from reaching for less helpful alternatives such as toothpicks.

Some people also floss twice a day. This is also acceptable. Again, the most important thing is that you floss and do it consistently! 

When Should I Floss?

It doesn’t matter what time of day you floss. The choice is up to you and is a personal preference. Some people prefer to floss in the morning and others in the evening. You can choose to floss before or after brushing. Once again, the most important factor in choosing is to pick a time that’s good for you and when you know you’ll follow through and consistently floss.

When Should My Child Start Flossing?

Children need to floss too! The sooner they become accustomed to flossing, the more likely they are to carry the habit throughout their lives. You should start flossing for them as soon as they have two or more teeth that touch. Ask your child’s provider at the Gardena office if it’s time to start during your next visit.

As they get older and their manual dexterity improves, you can teach them to start flossing on their own. Many children won’t have the manual dexterity to do a good job with string floss until they’re around 10, but some might be able to use floss picks at a younger age. You know your child best and can judge when they are ready.

How Much Does Flossing Cost?

Flossing, like most preventative steps you can take at home, is incredibly cheap and cost-effective. You can purchase several months’ worth of string floss or floss picks for just a couple of dollars. Water flossers cost considerably more, but they also last much longer.

Even the most expensive floss has a negligible cost compared to that involved with treating gum disease. Reversing gingivitis often involves deep cleanings that are much more expensive than floss. Treating advanced stages of gum disease is even more costly. Save yourself the cost (and trouble) and floss daily!

Ready To Improve Your Smile?

Gardena Dental Care is a modern up to date office with all the latest dental technologies and skilled and experienced providers. We can take care of all of your dental needs, from routine dental cleanings to orthodontics. We would love to see you!

Call Gardena Dental Care at (424) 295-7885 to book your first appointment with us today!